IMHO Reviews, led by Vitaliy Lano, just released its much-anticipated Skillshare article, giving readers a reality check packed with direct advice, real stats, and plenty of hands-on experience. Lano’s signature isn’t just a critical eye, but a clear, slightly optimistic take: Skillshare can work for motivated learners—if they play it smart.
Skillshare, a popular online learning platform, is still riding high as a leader in the creative education scene, offering an annual subscription that unlocks more than 34,000 project-oriented courses. Popular topics include design, marketing, illustration, filmmaking, productivity, and business creativity. It’s “all you can learn” from recognized experts and working creatives, at a single yearly cost.
The signup process is frictionless: a few clicks, a promised 7-day free trial, and—unless cancelled in time—a $168 annual bill. Lano commented, “The price is up from years past, and plenty of users have shared their frustration. But for people who plan to use the platform frequently, that’s still a great value. The breadth of Skillshare is impressive; you could spend all year learning and not run out of new material.” He pointed out that Skillshare is clearly geared toward hobbyists, freelancers, and people who learn best by doing.
A common complaint across forums and review boards is Skillshare’s auto-renewal system. Too many users miss the short trial window, find themselves automatically renewed, and then discover the cancellation process is more complex if they subscribed via Apple or Google Play. Anyone who’s ever scrambled to cancel a forgotten free trial knows the sinking feeling when a “creative boost” turns into a surprise bank statement shock, and online education subscriptions are notorious for exactly that.
Reflecting, Lano shares, “I once got so excited launching into an animation course that I plowed through hours of lessons on day one… then realized I’d forgotten about the 7-day trial deadline. Free learning turned expensive really quickly. Since then, if I just want to try any platform, reminders on my phone are non-negotiable.”
Lano continued, “Canceling is straightforward through the website,” Lano explained, “but you have to cancel on your phone’s app store if you joined there. Many miss this key detail and end up with extra charges.”
Yet, the IMHO Reviews team noted that Skillshare’s short trial is not a trick but a push for users to decide quickly, which often works out for decisive learners. Lano observed, “Shorter trials get people to take immediate action. If you’re motivated, you’ll quickly work out if Skillshare works for you. Just don’t set it and forget it.”
Skillshare’s biggest win is its variety and method: dozens of categories, regular updates, and a “learn by doing” structure where many classes include uploadable projects and access to feedback. “I found the community function is a nice bonus—sometimes you get encouragement and pro tips,” Lano expressed. “It’s hit or miss based on the teacher, but for many, the feedback is motivating enough to keep coming back.”
Quality is mixed but trending positive. The depth of course libraries has increased, and while there’s overlap, particularly in popular topics, the best courses make the search worthwhile. Lano stated, “If you want quick wins or advanced dives, read user reviews before enrolling in a class. There are standouts and some duds—such is life on subscription platforms.”
IMHO Reviews article offered a reality check for career-minded folks: Skillshare’s certificates are, at best, informal achievements. “No HR manager is going to skip the interview process because you completed a Skillshare branding course,” Lano said with a shrug. “But if you’re building a portfolio, ramping up your freelance offerings, or just chasing creative satisfaction, Skillshare offers plenty of substance.”
The review also turns the spotlight on instructor compensation—an ongoing source of debate. As of 2024, 20% of subscriber revenue goes to teachers, based on minutes watched. Instructors have expressed mixed feelings about this change: it rewards top engagement, but many wish for higher payouts. Still, Vitaliy suggested that this keeps the platform competitive and packed with passionate creatives.
Some standout positives emerged for savvy Skillshare shoppers. Discounts are available, notably a 10% off deal for first-time subscribers and a reliable 30-day money-back guarantee if cancelled right after the trial period charge.
Lano’s advice for prospective learners was straightforward: “If you’re serious about your creative journey, Skillshare can be a stellar resource. The more classes you take, the more the annual fee makes sense. But set reminders; treat the trial as a ‘test drive’—binge a few classes that first week and decide. Cancel on time, and there’s little risk.”
For more information about Skillshare and current discounts, visit the company’s website.
