Our Course Review Methodology
We’re a community of technical writers, documentation leaders, and content specialists. We share practical knowledge through our articles, training resources, newsletter, and independent, unbiased reviews of classes and courses that help writers build real skills.
What’s included on this page:
- What Makes Us Qualified
- Why TWHQ Reviews Are Useful, Honest & Trustworthy
- How We Test Classes and Courses
- Comparison Criteria Explained
- Addressing Specific Reader Needs
What Makes Us Qualified?
We review training through the lens of technical writing and professional writing outcomes.
That means we care about things like:
- Skill transfer, not just “content covered”
- How actionable the lessons are
- Whether assignments and feedback exist
- How clearly the program supports a real end goal (job readiness, portfolio pieces, workplace performance)
We write reviews to be decision-friendly, with clear use cases, pros and cons, and pricing notes where available.
Why TWHQ Reviews Are Useful, Honest & Trustworthy
We bring you unbiased evaluation and information with editorial independence.
Here is what that looks like in practice:
- We use a repeatable set of criteria within each category
- We compare courses against the same reader needs
- We focus on practical fit, not hype
- If a post includes affiliate links, we disclose that. Affiliate relationships do not decide rankings
How We Test Classes and Courses
Hands-on Testing and Evaluation
When possible, we evaluate courses directly. The exact approach depends on what’s available, but typically includes:
- Reviewing the curriculum for depth, structure, and clarity
- Checking for assignments, projects, or practical exercises
- Looking for feedback loops (instructor feedback, peer review, mentorship, grading rubrics)
- Evaluating the learning experience (lesson format, pacing, platform usability)
- Confirming what you actually get (access length, downloadable materials, community, office hours)
User Feedback Analysis
We look for patterns in learner feedback across common sources, when available. We weigh recurring themes more heavily than one-off opinions.
We also discount:
- Very old feedback that no longer reflects the current program
- Testimonials that are not independently verifiable
Direct Conversations With Providers
When we reach out to course providers, it is for factual accuracy, such as:
- Current pricing and what is included
- Refund policies and access terms
- Delivery format and time commitment
- Credential or certificate details (if offered)
Providers can help correct factual errors. They do not get to approve outcomes or rankings.
Comparison Criteria Explained
Curriculum and Skill Coverage
We look at what the course teaches and whether it matches the job or outcome it promises. We also look for gaps that matter in real work.
Learning Experience and Structure
We consider how easy it is to follow the course and stay consistent, including pacing, lesson design, and organization.
Practice, Assignments, and Feedback
We weigh hands-on work heavily. Courses that include meaningful practice and feedback typically lead to better outcomes than courses that are only video lessons.
Instructor Credibility
We look at the instructor’s experience, teaching clarity, and whether their background aligns with the course goals.
Support and Resources
We look at:
- How learners get help
- What resources are included
- Whether there is community or mentorship
- How clear communication is before and after purchase
Price and Value
We focus on value, not just lowest price:
- Transparency in pricing
- What is included vs add-ons
- Whether the offer makes sense for beginners, career switchers, or working professionals
Policies and Transparency
We pay attention to trust signals, including:
- Clear refund and cancellation policies
- Honest marketing claims
- Clear expectations around outcomes
Addressing Specific Reader Needs
Below are the class and course review posts this methodology applies to.
