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Create from scratch

How to build a course yourself with no AI generating content, in either the new builder or the classic builder.

Two options in the New course menu let you build a course entirely yourself. Both are called Start from scratch, and which one you pick decides the builder you work in.

  • Start from scratch at the top of the menu opens the new builder. Screens are made of content blocks you arrange on a flexible grid rather than fixed screen types, so you control the layout directly, and you can set separately how each screen stacks on a phone.
  • Start from scratch inside the Classic group opens the classic builder, where you pick a screen type for each screen. The steps further down cover this option.

Either way you bypass the AI assistant that asks you questions about your course in the other creation methods, and you land in the builder with a blank canvas.

Why start from scratch?

You might choose to start from scratch if you have a very clear idea of how you're going to build out your course, including what elements you need and the information you'd like to include. Starting from scratch means you are not using AI to generate or organise course content for you.

For example, if you have a policy document or existing training materials you'd like to include word-for-word, starting from scratch gives you complete control of the text, and none of your content will be summarised or omitted.

How do I start from scratch in the classic builder?

Step 1: Select your build method

At the top of your workspace dashboard, above the list of courses, select New course, then Start from scratch from inside the Classic group.

Step 2: Name your course

You'll be taken to the course builder, landing on the Start screen. On this screen, click the text where it says Course title to give your course a name.

Step 3: Change your course theme

Before you start adding screens, you might want to select a course theme that best suits your brand. To change the theme, click the Course theme button on the toolbar at the top of your screen.

Step 4: Add your first screen

You can now begin building out your course. To add your first screen, click the Add screen button on the left hand menu, then choose the screen type you want.

If you have existing training materials, you may want to copy and paste these straight into your screens. You can also use screens to storyboard your course, leaving space for video content or other missing pieces as you go through the course development process.

Frequently asked questions

Which of the two Start from scratch options should I use?

Use the one at the top of the New course menu, which opens the new builder, unless you specifically want to work with fixed screen types. The new builder gives you more control over layout, and it's where new blocks and features land.

Do I have to use AI if I start from scratch?

No. Starting from scratch bypasses the AI assistant entirely, and nothing is generated or reorganised for you. You can still ask AI for help later if you want it, for example to refine wording or generate an image, but that's your call.