---
title: "A Perfect Model for Online Tutorials – MS Visio Shapes Course"
date: 2007-08-04
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# A Perfect Model for Online Tutorials – MS Visio Shapes Course

This [tutorial on Visio's shapes](http://office.microsoft.com/training/Training.aspx?AssetID=RC101324601033&CTT=6&Origin=RC101324601033) from Microsoft is the best online tutorial I think I've ever seen. If I were modeling my help after a perfect example, it would be this tutorial.

[![A Perfect Tutorial](https://s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com/idbwmedia.com/images/perfecttutorial21.gif)](http://office.microsoft.com/training/Training.aspx?AssetID=RC101324601033&CTT=6&Origin=RC101324601033)

Here's why:

- It contains both audio and text. You can control the audio easily, or just read the text.
- Each page is short (2 minutes) so your attention span doesn't time out.
- While you listen to the audio, you look at a graphic that demonstrates the concept explained.
- You can see your progress through the course so you can see how many more screens are left.
- After 10 screens or so, you're given a quiz. Responses appear after each answer.
- After the quizzes, you have files to download and steps to walk through yourself. This helps you not just follow steps, but actually learn and grasp the material.
- Some graphics are mini-demos you can watch.
- The information is chunked and kept somewhat simple so it's not overwhelming.
- At the end of the course, you receive a quick reference card to help you remember what you learned.
- You also have the opportunity to rate the course and give feedback.