The Pre-Training Preparation Guide for Trainers Is Here

As a trainer, learner readiness directly impacts training outcomes. Pre-training preparation, often called prework, helps learners arrive focused, engaged, and ready to learn. When done well, it improves retention, increases buy-in, and sets the stage for a more effective learning experience before the session even begins.

In our new guide, we spoke with leading learning and development experts about how pre-training assignments support stronger training outcomes. You’ll learn how experienced trainers use pre-training preparation, what formats work best, and how to start creating your own learner-ready materials with confidence.

Here is a preview of what you can expect:

What is pre-training preparation?

Pre-training preparation includes any learning activity completed before a live or virtual training session. These pre-training assignments introduce key concepts, build curiosity, and help learners mentally prepare for the experience ahead.

By sharing learning materials before class, trainers create a more effective environment for instruction. Learners arrive with context, familiarity, and a stronger mindset for learning, which allows facilitators to spend more time applying concepts instead of introducing them from scratch.

What does effective pre-training work look like?

In the guide, we asked learning and development professionals how they design and distribute pre-training activities as part of their programs.

According to Lou Russell, Managing Practice Director, “We try to assign interactive activities, like puzzles, stories, and fill in the blanks, so they are already thinking about the topic. If they do their pre-training work, it helps jumpstart the class.”

Common examples of pre-training preparation include:

• Flipped classroom activities
• Short learning bursts, often delivered through microlearning
• Reading assignments or case studies

While formats may vary, effective pre-training assignments share one goal. They provide essential information in a clear, easy-to-digest way that prepares learners and builds momentum before the session begins.

Why pre-training preparation is worth the time

Pre-training preparation is valuable because it helps learners arrive ready to participate. When learners complete assignments ahead of time, they show up focused, prepared, and more receptive to new information.

It also increases early engagement. Giving learners something to interact with before class builds curiosity and investment from the start, which strengthens participation throughout the session.

Most importantly, pre-training preparation supports better retention.

According to Brian Washburn, Co-founder and CEO of Endurance Learning, “Reading articles, case studies, or other information in advance can help with retention because it allows learning to be spaced and concepts from the pre-training work can be reinforced during the session.”

When learners are prepared before class, the overall learning experience improves. Strong preparation leads to stronger outcomes and helps learners apply what they’ve learned long after the training ends.

Want to create pre-training preparation for your class? Check out our new guide today and see how.