How to Choose the Perfect Name for Your New Course
Naming a new course can feel like standing at a crossroads. You want something catchy, meaningful, and memorable—but where do you start? Whether you’re launching an online class, a workshop, or a certification program, the right name sets the tone, attracts your ideal audience, and even influences enrollment rates. Let’s explore practical strategies to brainstorm, refine, and finalize a name that resonates.
Start by Defining Your Core Message
Before jotting down ideas, clarify what your course is really about. Ask yourself:
– What’s the ultimate goal? Are you teaching a skill (e.g., “Beginner Guitar”), solving a problem (e.g., “Budgeting for Freelancers”), or inspiring transformation (e.g., “Unlock Your Creative Confidence”)?
– Who is your audience? A name that appeals to corporate professionals will differ from one targeting college students. Use language that speaks directly to their aspirations or pain points.
– What makes your course unique? Highlight your angle. If you’re teaching Python coding, maybe your approach is project-based or tailored for non-tech careers.
Example: Instead of “Introduction to Python,” try “Python for Entrepreneurs: Build Your First App in 6 Weeks.”
Use Keywords Strategically (Without Sounding Robotic)
While keywords help with discoverability, avoid stuffing them awkwardly. Think of it as your course’s first impression—would you lead with jargon or a compelling promise?
Try this:
1. List primary keywords related to your topic (e.g., “photography,” “finance,” “leadership”).
2. Pair them with action verbs or outcomes: “Master,” “Transform,” “Launch,” “Solve.”
3. Add specificity: “for Beginners,” “in 30 Days,” “for Small Businesses.”
Bad example: “Advanced Digital Marketing Strategies for Online Businesses.”
Better: “Grow Your Online Business: 90-Day Digital Marketing Blueprint.”
Keep It Short and Punchy
Long titles get forgotten or truncated in search results. Aim for 3–7 words. Use rhythm, alliteration, or metaphors to make it sticky.
Examples:
– Too vague: “Effective Communication Skills.”
– Improved: “Speak with Impact: Persuasion for Professionals.”
– Even better: “The Charisma Code: Master Workplace Communication.”
Avoid Overused Phrases
Terms like “Crash Course,” “Ultimate Guide,” or “101” are common but generic. Stand out by focusing on outcomes or emotions.
Instead of: “Social Media Marketing 101”
Try: “From Zero to Viral: Build a Social Media Brand That Sells.”
Test for Clarity and Appeal
Run your top choices by a small group of people in your target audience. Ask:
– “What do you think this course covers?”
– “Does this name make you curious to learn more?”
– “Would you search for something like this online?”
If responses miss the mark, refine. For instance, a course named “Data Decoded” might sound intriguing but vague. Adding “for Non-Tech Leaders” clarifies the audience.
Brainstorm with a “Word Dump”
Set a timer for 10 minutes and write every relevant word, phrase, or emotion that comes to mind. Don’t filter—just brainstorm. Later, circle terms that feel authentic and pair them creatively.
Sample word dump for a course on mindfulness:
Calm, stress relief, focus, daily habits, meditation, productivity, anxiety, balance, routine, science-backed, quick, workplace, students, parents…
Possible names:
– “Daily Zen: 5-Minute Mindfulness for Busy Parents”
– “Focus Unleashed: Science-Backed Stress Relief at Work”
Check Availability and Trademarks
Before finalizing:
1. Search domain names and social handles. Even if you don’t need a website now, consistency helps branding.
2. Google the name. Ensure it’s not already used by a competing course.
3. Avoid trademarked terms. Steer clear of phrases like “MasterClass” or “TEDx” unless affiliated.
Use Subtitles to Add Context
If your main title is catchy but ambiguous, add a subtitle. This works well for courses with niche audiences or unique methodologies.
Example:
– Main title: “The Green Kitchen”
– Subtitle: “Plant-Based Cooking for Beginners on a Budget”
Stay True to Your Brand Voice
Is your course playful and quirky? Formal and academic? Let the name reflect that personality.
– A casual coding course: “Code Like a Rockstar: Web Dev for Creative Minds”
– A corporate leadership program: “Executive Influence: Leading High-Performance Teams”
Final Checklist Before You Commit
– ✅ Does it clearly convey the topic and audience?
– ✅ Is it easy to spell and pronounce?
– ✅ Does it stand out in your niche?
– ✅ Does it evoke curiosity or excitement?
When in Doubt, Think “Problem + Solution”
People often search for courses to fix a problem. Frame your title as the answer:
“Struggling to [problem]? Learn how to [solution] in [timeframe/way].”
Example:
“Struggling to Save Money? Learn Budgeting That Actually Sticks (No Spreadsheets Needed!).”
Real-World Examples to Inspire You
– Original: “Public Speaking Basics” → Revised: “Own the Room: Conquer Stage Fright in 4 Weeks”
– Original: “Intro to Graphic Design” → Revised: “Design Magic: Canva Pro Tips for Small Business Owners”
Remember: A Name Can Evolve
If you’re stuck, launch with a working title and refine it later based on feedback. Many successful courses rebrand after understanding their audience better.
Your course name isn’t just a label—it’s the spark that lights curiosity. Take the time to craft something that feels both authentic and irresistible, and you’ll set the stage for a course that resonates long after the first click.
Please indicate: Thinking In Educating » How to Choose the Perfect Name for Your New Course