Many years ago I came across a method of writing instructional materials that many of the larger companies around the world use for producing training materials for their employees. It is called structured writing. We use this approach in all of our materials. This is why the Virtual Art Academy® materials are different from nearly all other art instruction on the market. Everyone who has purchased the full program sees this difference immediately. Generally you will not see this method used in art books because only very large companies can afford to use the method. This is because:

1. It takes several years to learn how to do this well and the training of writers to use this approach is expensive and,
2. It takes much longer to develop training materials using this approach, which is also expensive. The reason is that it is not just about the formatting of the material, but much more about how you analyze the knowledge before you even start writing.

Here are some of the emails we have received about this:

"Having had a career in publishing I am very impressed with the look of the course material. It's very clear and easy to understand."

"Explanations are concise and clear, with examples and many drawing/pictures. The organization of Techniques and Tips is very good. Also, I find very helpful "do this" "avoid this"."

"The material is well designed and the format is easy to follow."

"These courses are so valuable because they give totally explicit instructions down to the tiniest detail, and there's even explanations as to why certain things are done."

"Extremely easy to understand because they are straight to the point! No time is wasted finding the essence of the lesson. Very pleased with what I've bought so far."

"I've been painting for about 7 years now, everyday on my own. During these seven years I purchased every oil painters art book I could find. I have never read a book more detailed, with more instruction, with more information, with more how to, and more how not to than this booklet. I read it when I need an answer to a question on painting, I take it with me on all of my outings and its at arms reach here in my studio. Steve Rivera"

This is the layout of the course materials. Each lesson is presented with clear descriptions of what to do and what not to do. Unlike other art books and courses, the information is presented succinctly and clearly, so you do not have to wade through pages of text looking for answers to your questions. Because of the simple layout, it is easy to look information up later when you need to refer back to it to solve a painting problem.

"Explanations are concise and clear, with examples and many drawing/pictures. The organization of Techniques and Tips is very good. Also, I find very helpful "do this" "avoid this"."

Tip: By putting either the assignments or any of the various checklists included in the course materials in a plastic wallet, you can put them right next to your easel while you are painting so you can reference them easily. Alternatively you can read the lessons on screen as the lessons are always accessible on your hard disk.