Tutorial
Definition
A tutorial is a crucial component in content strategy, primarily aimed at educating users about a product or service. Tutorials can take various forms, including written guides, videos, interactive sessions, or step-by-step walkthroughs. Their main goal is to facilitate user understanding, enhance user experience, and foster engagement by providing clear, actionable instructions.
In the context of user experience (UX), tutorials play a significant role in onboarding new users and helping them navigate complex systems. By breaking down intricate processes into manageable steps, tutorials can alleviate user frustration and reduce the learning curve associated with new technologies. This is particularly important in software applications and online platforms where users may encounter unfamiliar interfaces.
Effective tutorials are characterized by their clarity, conciseness, and relevance. They should be designed with the user’s perspective in mind, ensuring that the content is accessible and easy to follow. Additionally, tutorials can be enhanced with visual aids, such as screenshots or diagrams, to reinforce understanding and retention of information.
Expanded Definition
The concept of tutorials has evolved significantly with the rise of digital technology. Historically, tutorials were often limited to printed manuals or in-person training sessions. However, the proliferation of online resources and multimedia content has transformed tutorials into dynamic and interactive learning tools. Today, users expect tutorials to be readily available and integrated into the digital experiences they encounter.
In addition to traditional tutorials, there are also self-paced learning modules and interactive tutorials that adapt to the user's progress, providing a more personalized learning experience. This shift reflects a broader trend in UX design, where the emphasis is placed on creating user-centered content that not only informs but also engages and motivates users to explore and learn more.
Key Activities
Creating step-by-step instructional content.
Designing interactive tutorials for user engagement.
Conducting user testing to refine tutorial effectiveness.
Integrating multimedia elements to enhance learning.
Updating tutorials based on user feedback and product changes.
Benefits
Improves user onboarding and reduces time to proficiency.
Enhances user satisfaction by minimizing confusion.
Encourages exploration of features and functionalities.
Increases retention rates by providing ongoing support.
Fosters a sense of community through shared learning experiences.
Example
For instance, a software company may develop a series of video tutorials to walk users through the setup process of a complex application. These tutorials can be embedded in the application itself, allowing users to access them contextually as they encounter different features. This approach not only helps users learn how to use the software effectively but also reduces the number of support inquiries, as users can find solutions to common questions independently.
Use Cases
Onboarding new users to a software application.
Teaching users how to navigate a website or platform.
Providing training for complex tools or technologies.
Demonstrating best practices for using products or services.
Facilitating ongoing education on updates and new features.
Challenges & Limitations
Creating tutorials that are too long or complex can overwhelm users.
Keeping tutorials updated with frequent product changes can be resource-intensive.
Some users may prefer more hands-on learning experiences over traditional tutorials.
Accessibility issues may arise if tutorials are not designed with diverse user needs in mind.
Tools & Methods
Screen recording software (e.g., Camtasia, OBS Studio).
Content management systems for hosting tutorials (e.g., WordPress, Confluence).
Interactive tutorial tools (e.g., WalkMe, Intro.js).
Graphic design tools for creating visual aids (e.g., Adobe Illustrator, Canva).
User feedback tools for assessing tutorial effectiveness (e.g., SurveyMonkey, Typeform).
How to Cite "Tutorial" - APA, MLA, and Chicago Citation Formats
UX Glossary. (2025, February 11, 2026). Tutorial. UX Glossary. https://www.uxglossary.com/glossary/tutorial
Note: Access date is automatically set to today. Update if needed when using the citation.