Writing a Course Description 

The more a course promises to deliver benefits that are detailed and attractive, the more likely it is to enroll well. Examples:

Great: Herbal Gift Baskets: Learn how to make a professional shrink-wrapped basket filled with five easy and fun projects…Make lavender dryer sheets, glycerin bath salts, relaxation eye mask, herbal tea blends, and herb-decorated candles during class. Also learn how to fill your basket and how to wrap and bow your basket like a pro. All supplies, except for basket, will be provided.

Great: Get Strong (and Live to Tell About It): Whether you are a world class athlete or a weekend warrior, wouldn't you like to up your strength by 10-20 percent while dramatically reducing the possibility of a weight training injury? Learn how to amplify your strength and protect your spine by flexing your abs at the right time; how to immediately lift more iron with better form by using three powerful visualizations; and how to markedly increase your force and control by squeezing the barbell…

Weak: Outdoor Enthusiasts: Increase your outdoor opportunities and level of fitness as we explore the basics of going from the easiest trails to the highest peaks. Learn the inside scoop on the outdoor clubs where you can meet others. Whether you're just getting started or would like to expand your outdoor experiences, this class will get you outdoors.

Weak: Secrets of Dog Behavior: Have you ever yelled "NO!" at your dog? Maybe swatted him with a newspaper or your hand? Worst of all, have you or someone you know ever been told that your dog should be put down because of his behavior problems? Then, come to this seminar and find out why…"There are no bad dogs."…

 To summarize:

1. Benefits are what you will learn or receive from the class. Features are how you will learn it or receive it.

2. The best descriptions have both, often in the same sentence. Don't just say: " We'll do a project." Say: "We'll learn (these three things) by making (this precise) project."

3. Here's a dynamite opening sentence that incorporates these principles:
   "There are at least ten ways to increase your retirement savings, and you can put all of them to work in one week."

4. Here's one that doesn't have much literary merit, but performs the job:
   "Learn the basic concepts of journalism, including how to find stories, how to research and report the story, and how to put it together into a compelling piece that can be published in magazines and newspapers."

Now, you do it!