Signposts: The Simple Tool That Increases The Value Of Your Course
The simple teaching technique that most course creators miss
Have you ever taken an online course where you struggled to remember what you learned, even though the presenter was professional and polished?
This happened to me recently while going through several LinkedIn Learning courses. Despite the professional delivery, clear speaking, and great visuals, I walked away scratching my head. What did I actually learn? Is there anything I can put into practice?
I realized these courses were missing something critical that I've been doing instinctively in my own teaching: signposts.
What are signposts?
Signposts are clear verbal or written markers that tell your students exactly what you're teaching, why it matters, and how they'll learn it. They explicitly label concepts, steps, and transitions throughout your lesson.
Think of them as mile markers on a path through the jungle. You've worn this path many times before. You've marked it clearly so others can follow—even when you're not there to guide them.
Why signposts are essential (not juvenile)
Some course creators avoid using signposts because they think they're too obvious or even "juvenile." They're worried about appearing boring or unsophisticated.
But here's the thing: Make understanding easy so application becomes possible.
The less mental energy your students spend trying to figure out your lesson structure, the more energy they have to actually implement what you're teaching.
When watching Daniel Pink's LinkedIn Learning course, I immediately implemented his ideas the same day. Why? Because he clearly labeled everything:
He named each technique
He explained why it was important
He broke down implementation into clear steps
He labeled each step: "Step 1, do this. Step 2, do that. Step 3, do this."
Compare this to courses where I had to rewind sections because I didn't realize the instructor had moved to a new topic. Or courses where examples were given without clarifying what concept they illustrated.
How to add effective signposts to your course
1. Label your concepts clearly
Even if the title appears on the slide or lesson header, verbally state what you're teaching. Don't assume students will connect the dots.
Bad example: "Let me give you some examples..." (Examples of what?) Good example: "Now I'll show you three types of productivity hacks. Hack #1 is..."
2. Tell them what you'll tell them
At the start of each lesson, clearly state what you'll cover. This opens mental "boxes" where students can store the information you're about to share.
Bad example: Diving straight into content without an overview Good example: "In this lesson, I'll explain what this concept is, why it's important, and how to put it into practice."
3. Signal transitions explicitly
When moving from one point to another, clearly announce it. Don't rely on smooth segues alone—they're too subtle.
Bad example: Flowing from one topic to another without marking the shift Good example: "Now that we've covered Point 1, let's move on to Point 2, which is..."
4. Summarize what you've covered
At the end of each section, quickly recap the key points. This helps students consolidate what they've learned.
Bad example: Ending abruptly or moving to the next topic Good example: "To sum up, we've covered three elements of the Yes-Yes pricing model: Element 1, Element 2, and Element 3."
Clarity over cleverness
Your course outline shouldn't be a hidden structure that students have to decipher. The outline should be visible and obvious.
Some people think being clever with transitions or cute with section names makes their content more engaging. But remember: Be more clear than clever.
When customers struggle to remember what you taught, it's not because your content wasn't valuable—it's often because it wasn't clearly structured.
In my Atomic Course Blueprint, you can literally copy and paste all the headings into a separate document to see the entire outline. Nothing is hidden or disguised. That's by design.
The bottom line
When your course has clear signposts:
Students can implement faster
They won’t need to constantly review lessons to get the point
They'll actually put your teaching into practice
More students will finish and apply what they learn
Don't make your students wade through a swamp of content hoping to find the path. Give them clear signposts that guide them every step of the way.
Two ways I can help you
The Atomic Course Blueprint - Want to create a course without the usual overwhelm? Try creating a tiny course. Find out more here.
iPARA: How to organize your digital life for action - Is digital disorganization keeping you from reaching your goals? What if just four folders could let you not just stay organized but actually get things done. See for yourself here.
Still here?
Have you noticed courses that use signposts effectively? Or struggled with ones that don't? Reply to this email with your experiences—I'd love to hear them.