How to Create and Sell Online Courses: A Step-by-Step Guide
Quintin Del-Vierro Kojo Akakpo
Content Creator & Blogger | Affiliate & SEO Marketing Specialist | Social Media & Graphic Design | Video Editing
If you're thinking about creating and selling an online course, there's no better time than now.
Feeling overwhelmed by the idea of creating an online course? You’re not alone, but don’t worry—we’re here to guide you through it. In this comprehensive step-by-step guide, you'll learn how to successfully develop, promote, and sell your online course. We’ll walk you through everything from brainstorming and researching ideas, defining your target audience, recording and editing, to marketing and selling your course effectively.
With the growing demand for people eager to acquire new skills—whether for a career switch, a side hustle, or just for fun—the need for quality content has never been higher. Launching an online course not only helps you earn additional income but can also generate leads, attract new clients, and establish you as an authority in your field.
Many entrepreneurs have fantastic ideas for online courses but often get stuck on where to start. This practical guide will help you follow a simple, structured approach to building a successful course you can sell online. Plus, after creating your first course, you’ll likely find the process smoother next time, setting you on the path to building a profitable online business.
How Much Can You Earn by Selling Online Courses?
The amount of money you can make from selling online courses depends on several factors. For example, if you’re just starting and don’t yet have a large audience, you might want to price your first course at a lower rate to encourage feedback and sales. If you have experience in sales or marketing, these skills can significantly impact your revenue.
Do you already have a presence on social media, an email list, or a YouTube channel? Having an established audience will make selling your course easier. Additionally, more in-depth or specialized courses tend to command higher prices.
Imagine you have 1,000 followers and decide to price your course at $20. If 25 people purchase it in the first week, that brings in $500 in passive income. As your audience grows and you refine your approach, you might create another course priced at $50. If 45 people buy this one, you’ll earn $2,250, with an additional 10 buyers still purchasing your first course, adding another $200. At this point, you’ve built a profitable course-based business.
Steps to Create an Online Course
Now, let’s break down the essential steps to creating an online course:
1. Choose Your Course Subject
Pick a topic you're passionate about and want to teach
There are countless topics you could base an online course on, but it’s crucial to choose one that excites you and that you can confidently discuss on camera.
Make a list of subjects that interest you, then narrow it down to your top choices. Consider which topic aligns best with your goals. Are you aiming to generate extra income, attract more clients, or grow your audience?
Identify a subject with demand—research thoroughly
It’s also essential to ensure there’s demand for the topic you want to teach. Here are some ways to gauge interest:
Brainstorm and Research Course Ideas
Proper brainstorming and research are vital to the success of your course. Don’t assume there’s a market for your idea—validate it through thorough research. You might discover the topic you had in mind is already saturated.
Explore various online course platforms and search for similar topics. Are they all alike? What do the reviews and sales numbers look like?
Also, perform a Google keyword search. Are there lots of popular YouTube videos on the subject?
For example, if you're a marketing expert, you'll find thousands of marketing courses online. But don’t get discouraged—narrow your focus by brainstorming subcategories within marketing. Here are some examples...
Affiliate Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Also Read