The Best Online Courses for Absolute Beginners (No BS Guide)

If you're just starting out and looking to learn something new, online courses can be a great way to dive in. There are tons of platforms out there, each offering courses on a wide range of topics. Whether you want to pick up a new skill for work or just want to explore a hobby, finding the right course can be a bit overwhelming. Don't worry, though! This guide will help you sift through the noise and find the best online courses for beginners that are straightforward and easy to follow.

Key Takeaways

• Codecademy is perfect for anyone wanting to learn coding basics without any prior experience.

• Coursera partners with universities, giving you access to quality courses from top institutions.

• Udemy has a huge variety of courses, often at affordable prices, which is great for beginners.

• Khan Academy offers free resources and is ideal for students looking to strengthen their foundational knowledge.

• Skillshare focuses on creative skills, making it a fun option for those wanting to explore art or design.

1. Codecademy

Codecademy is often the first place people think of when they want to learn to code, and for good reason. It's been around for a while, and they've really nailed the interactive learning experience. You learn by doing, which is super helpful for actually retaining the information.

They offer courses in a bunch of different languages and subjects, from web development to data science. It's structured in a way that's easy to follow, even if you've never written a line of code in your life. Plus, they have a pretty active community, so you can always find help if you get stuck.

Here's what I like about Codecademy:

• It's very beginner-friendly. They break down complex topics into small, manageable chunks.

• The interactive exercises are engaging and keep you motivated.

• They offer a wide range of courses, so you can explore different areas of coding.

I remember when I first started learning to code, I was completely overwhelmed. Codecademy was the first platform that made me feel like I could actually do it. The step-by-step instructions and immediate feedback were a game-changer.

If you're looking to start coding projects, Codecademy is a solid choice. They also have career paths if you want to go deeper into a specific area. It's not free, but the structured learning and community support are worth the investment for many people.

2. Coursera

Coursera is a pretty big name in online learning, and for good reason. It partners with a ton of universities and companies to offer beginner coding courses. You can find everything from single courses to full-blown degree programs. I think that's pretty cool.

One thing I like about Coursera is the variety. You can learn about almost anything. Want to learn Python? They've got it. Interested in data science? Yep, that too. Plus, a lot of the courses are free to audit, which means you can check out the material without paying anything. Of course, if you want a certificate, you'll have to shell out some cash.

• Tons of variety in subjects.

• Courses from top universities.

• Audit options available.

I've taken a few courses on Coursera, and honestly, the quality can vary. Some courses are amazing, with really engaging instructors and well-designed assignments. Others? Not so much. It really depends on the specific course and the university that's putting it out there. So, do your research before you commit!

3. Udemy

Udemy is a huge online learning platform. I mean, seriously huge. It's got courses on just about everything you can think of, from coding and business to personal development and arts. The cool thing about Udemy is that anyone can create and sell a course, which means you get a massive variety of topics and teaching styles. However, this also means the quality can vary quite a bit, so it's important to read reviews before you sign up for anything.

One thing I like about Udemy is that you can often find really good deals. They frequently have sales where courses are heavily discounted, sometimes down to like $10 or $15. It's worth keeping an eye out for those if you're on a budget. Plus, you get lifetime access to the course materials, so you can go back and review them whenever you want. Udemy offers a vast selection of courses, making it a great place to start learning new skills.

Here's a quick rundown of what makes Udemy stand out:

• Huge variety of courses

• Frequent sales and discounts

• Lifetime access to course materials

• User reviews to help you choose quality courses

Udemy can be a bit overwhelming because of the sheer number of courses. It's a good idea to use the filters to narrow down your search and focus on courses with high ratings and lots of positive reviews. Also, check the instructor's background and credentials to make sure they're qualified to teach the subject.

If you're looking to discover in-demand skills, Udemy is definitely worth checking out. You can find courses on pretty much any topic you're interested in, and the prices are often very reasonable.

4. Khan Academy

Khan Academy is a solid option, especially if you're just starting out and want something that's free and covers a wide range of subjects. I remember using it back in high school for math, and it was a lifesaver. It's not just for students, though; they have stuff on economics, computer programming, and even art history. It's like a digital library of knowledge, and the best part is that it's all free.

The platform is known for its clear, step-by-step explanations, which can be super helpful when you're tackling a new topic.

They use videos and practice exercises to help you learn, and you can track your progress as you go. It's pretty straightforward to use, even if you're not tech-savvy. Plus, they offer educational resources in multiple languages, which is a huge bonus for anyone who isn't a native English speaker.

I think what makes Khan Academy stand out is its mission. It's not about making money; it's about providing a free, world-class education to anyone, anywhere. That's a pretty cool goal, and it shows in the quality of the content they provide.

5. edX

Okay, so edX is another big player in the online course world. It's similar to Coursera in that it partners with actual universities to offer online courses. Think Harvard, MIT, Berkeley – the big names. This means you're getting legit course material, often at a fraction of the cost of attending these schools in person.

edX is a great option if you're looking for something more academic or want to earn a certificate from a well-known institution.

It's not just about lectures, though. You usually have assignments, quizzes, and sometimes even projects, so you're actively learning the material. The courses can be pretty intense, but that's because they're designed to give you a solid understanding of the subject.

I've heard some people say edX is better for serious learners who are willing to put in the work. It's not really the place to go if you're just looking for a quick overview. The courses are in-depth and require a real commitment.

Here's a quick rundown of what you can expect:

• University-level content

• Certificates upon completion

• Assignments and assessments

• A more structured learning experience

6. Skillshare

Skillshare is pretty cool because it's all about creative skills. I remember when I first checked it out, I was surprised by how many different classes they had. It's not just coding or business stuff; you can learn about painting, animation, or even just how to take better photos with your phone. It's a good place to explore if you're into artsy stuff.

Skillshare focuses on project-based learning, so you're actually doing something instead of just watching videos.

I think the best part is that a lot of the classes are taught by people who are actually working in those fields. It's not always super polished, but you get a real sense of what it's like to do that job. Plus, the community aspect is nice. You can share your projects and get feedback from other students, which is way more helpful than just learning on your own.

I tried a calligraphy class on Skillshare last year. It was fun, but my handwriting still looks like a doctor's prescription. Maybe I need more practice, or maybe I should just stick to typing.

Here's what I like about Skillshare:

• Tons of creative classes

• Project-based learning

• Community feedback

If you're looking to pick up a new hobby or improve your creative skills, Skillshare is worth checking out. You can find online art classes for all skill levels.

7. LinkedIn Learning

LinkedIn Learning is interesting. It's not just a course platform; it's tied into a professional networking site. This means you can see what skills are trending in your field and take courses to match. I think that's pretty smart.

The courses are generally pretty good quality, often focusing on practical skills you can use in a job.

It's not free like some of the others, but if you're already paying for LinkedIn Premium, you get access to all the courses. If you're serious about career advancement, it might be worth checking out.

I remember when I first started using LinkedIn Learning. I was trying to learn a new software for my job, and the courses were really helpful. The instructors were clear, and the exercises were relevant. It definitely helped me get up to speed quickly.

Here's a quick rundown of what I like and don't like:

• Good integration with LinkedIn profiles.

• Focus on professional skills.

• Instructors with real-world experience.

• Not free; requires a subscription.

• Some courses can be a bit basic.

8. FutureLearn

FutureLearn is another platform that partners with universities and organizations around the globe to basic English skills. It's got a pretty wide range of courses, from short, focused programs to full-fledged online degrees. I think it's a solid option if you're looking for something a bit more structured and academic.

• Lots of courses from real universities.

• Options for certificates and degrees.

• A good mix of free and paid content.

I tried a FutureLearn course on archaeology once, and it was surprisingly engaging. The instructors were clearly passionate about the subject, and the interactive elements kept me interested. It felt like a real university course, but without the hefty tuition bill (at least for the free version!).

The platform is easy to use, and the courses are well-designed. It's worth checking out if you want a more formal learning experience.

9. Alison

Alison is another platform that's worth checking out, especially if you're on a tight budget. I remember when I first started looking into online courses, I was overwhelmed by the costs. Alison stood out because it offers free courses. Yep, you read that right – free! Of course, they do have options to pay for certificates and remove ads, but the core learning material is accessible without spending a dime.

It's not just about the price, though. Alison has a pretty wide range of subjects, from business and IT to languages and personal development. I've dabbled in a few of their courses, and while the production quality isn't always top-notch, the content is generally solid and well-structured. It's a great way to get your feet wet in a new subject without committing to a paid course.

One thing I appreciate about Alison is its focus on practical skills. Many of their courses are designed to help you gain specific knowledge that you can immediately apply in your career or personal life. It's less about theoretical concepts and more about real-world application, which is a huge plus for beginners.

Here's a quick rundown of what you can expect:

• Variety of Subjects: They cover a broad spectrum, so you're likely to find something that interests you.

• Certificate Options: While the courses are free, you can pay for a certificate to prove you completed the course.

• User-Friendly Interface: The platform is easy to navigate, even if you're not tech-savvy.

Alison might not have the same prestige as some of the bigger names on this list, but it's a fantastic resource for anyone looking to study and complete various subjects without breaking the bank. It's definitely worth a look!

10. Pluralsight and more

Okay, so we've covered a lot of the big names in online learning. But the journey doesn't end there! There are a few other platforms worth mentioning, each with its own strengths and quirks. Let's take a quick look at Pluralsight and some other options you might want to explore.

Pluralsight is a bit different. It's heavily focused on tech skills. Think coding, IT, data science, and the like. If you're looking to level up your technical abilities, this could be a great choice. They have a ton of courses, learning paths, and even assessments to help you figure out where you need to improve. It's more of a subscription-based model, so you pay a monthly or annual fee to access everything.

It's easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer number of options out there. Don't feel like you need to try every single platform. Pick one or two that seem like a good fit for your goals and learning style, and stick with them for a while. You can always branch out later if you want to explore other options.

Here's a quick rundown of some other platforms you might want to check out:

• Udacity: Known for its "Nanodegree" programs, which are more intensive and career-focused. They often involve projects and mentorship.

• Skillshare: Great for creative skills like design, photography, and writing. It's also subscription-based, with a wide variety of classes.

• MasterClass: Learn from celebrities and experts in various fields. It's more about inspiration and high-level knowledge than hands-on skills.

And honestly, there are tons more popping up all the time. The key is to do a little research and find what works best for you. Don't be afraid to try a few free trials before committing to a subscription. Good luck!

If you are looking to advance your tech skills, Pluralsight is a great option. They offer expert-led courses and hands-on experiences. It's a great way to get online learning and certifications.

Wrapping It Up

So there you have it. A solid list of online courses for beginners, no fluff included. Whether you want to learn coding, graphic design, or even cooking, there's something here for you. Just remember, starting something new can feel a bit overwhelming, but that's totally normal. Take your time, pick a course that sparks your interest, and dive in. You might stumble a bit at first, but that's part of the learning process. Just keep at it, and before you know it, you'll be picking up new skills like a pro. Happy learning!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are online courses for beginners?

Online courses for beginners are classes offered on the internet that teach basic skills or knowledge in a subject. They are designed for people who are just starting out.

Do I need any special skills to take these courses?

No, you don’t need special skills. These courses are made for beginners, so they start with the basics.

How much do these online courses cost?

Many online courses are free, but some might charge a fee. It’s good to check before you sign up.

Can I learn at my own pace?

Yes! Most online courses let you learn at your own speed, so you can take your time.

What topics can I learn about?

You can learn about many topics like coding, art, math, and even cooking! There’s something for everyone.

Will I get a certificate after completing a course?

Some courses offer a certificate when you finish, while others do not. Be sure to check if this is important to you.