Pluralsight Review

Pluralsight Review for 2023

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Last Updated: May 8, 2023

pluralsight review

Well, dear reader, as a seasoned specialist of online learning platforms who have personally ventured into Pluralsight, I am your humble guide in this quest for knowledge. In this extensive review, I shall impart my wisdom and personal experiences to help you navigate the tumultuous seas of e-learning and determine whether Pluralsight is the shining beacon you seek.


With a generous dash of dry humor and a keen eye for detail, I'll explore the nooks and crannies of this platform, dissecting its various features and offerings with surgical precision. We'll dive into the courses, scrutinize the learning paths, and ponder the mysterious skill assessments awaiting the intrepid learner.


But fear not, for we shall not stop there. Oh no, we shall venture even further, daring to compare this formidable platform with its numerous online counterparts, bravely seeking answers to the age-old question: is Pluralsight truly the right choice for you, or does another contender hold the key to unlocking your hidden potential?



So, buckle up and join me on this wild ride as we embark on an unforgettable journey through the ever-fascinating world of Pluralsight.

Introduction to Pluralsight

Pluralsight is a leading online learning platform that offers a vast library of courses for technology professionals, covering topics like software development, IT operations, data science, and more. This section will overview the platform's features and discuss its advantages and disadvantages.

Overview and platform features

what is plurasight

Pluralsight offers a wide range of features to enhance the learning experience for individuals and businesses. As someone who has personally used the platform, I've found the following features to be particularly helpful:

Free account and trial

Pluralsight offers a free account that allows you to explore a limited selection of courses and resources before committing to a paid subscription. Additionally, the platform provides:

  • A 10-day free trial.
  • Giving you full access to its entire library of courses.
  • Allowing you to test-drive the platform and determine if it fits your learning needs well.

Courses for individuals and businesses

Pluralsight caters to both individual learners and businesses seeking to upskill their teams. The platform offers a variety of learning paths and courses tailored to specific roles and skill levels, ensuring that you can find the right learning resources to meet your unique needs. As someone who has benefited from Pluralsight's courses, I can attest to their quality and relevance to the demands of today's tech industry.

Certifications

Pluralsight offers a range of industry-recognized certifications, which can be a valuable asset to advance your career or demonstrate your expertise in a particular area. As a Pluralsight user, I've found their certification preparation courses comprehensive and up-to-date, providing the knowledge and skills needed to pass certification exams and earn those crucial credentials.

Offline and mobile downloads

One feature that I've found particularly useful is the ability to download courses for offline viewing on both desktop and mobile devices. This functionality allows you to learn on the go and ensures you can access your learning materials even when you don't have an internet connection. As someone who often travels and has limited connectivity, this feature has been a game-changer for my learning experience.

Pluralsight Limitations and drawbacks

While Pluralsight offers a wealth of benefits, there are some limitations and drawbacks that you should be aware of before committing to a subscription. As a user of the platform, I've encountered the following issues:

Limited topic selection

Although Pluralsight offers a broad range of courses in technology-related fields, its selection of topics outside these areas is limited. If you want to learn about non-technical subjects, consider other online learning platforms offering a more diverse range of topics.

No free courses

pluralsight free courses

Unlike other online learning platforms, Pluralsight offers no free courses beyond the limited selection available with a free account. If you're on a tight budget or want to explore a topic without committing to a subscription, look elsewhere for free learning resources. While there are mentions on the website stating "Try for free" what the company is saying is a Free Trial or mini courses that would result in no gain for your career.

Limited interaction

One aspect of Pluralsight that needs improvement is the level of interaction with instructors and other learners. While some courses offer opportunities for discussion and feedback, these instances are relatively rare, and the platform primarily focuses on video-based learning. If you prefer a more interactive learning experience or feel that you learn best through collaboration, there may be better choices than Pluralsight.

Pricing and Subscription Plans

As someone who has invested in a Pluralsight subscription, I understand the importance of considering the cost and available options before committing to a platform. In this section, I'll discuss Pluralsight's pricing structure, the options for business users, and how to cancel a membership if necessary.

Pluralsight Course Offerings

pluralsight course offerings

As a Pluralsight user, I've had the opportunity to explore their extensive library of courses and learning paths. In this section, I'll overview the main course categories and some popular learning paths within each category.

Course categories and popular paths

Pluralsight offers courses across a variety of technology-related fields. The followings are some of the primary course categories and popular learning paths within each:

Software Development

pluralsight software development

Pluralsight's Software Development category covers various programming languages, frameworks, and methodologies. Some popular learning paths in this category include:

  • Full Stack Web Development: Learn to build web applications using languages like JavaScript, HTML, and CSS and frameworks like React, Angular, and Node.js.
  • Mobile App Development: Master the skills needed to develop mobile applications for iOS and Android using Swift, Kotlin, and more.
  • Game Development: Dive into game development using popular tools and engines like Unity and Unreal Engine.

IT OPS

pluralsight IT Ops

The IT OPS category focuses on the skills to manage and maintain IT infrastructure, including networking, security, and cloud technologies. Popular learning paths in this category are:

  • Network Administration: Gain expertise in managing and troubleshooting network systems using tools like Wireshark, Cisco IOS, and more.
  • Information Security: Learn about securing networks, systems, and data from cyber threats using ethical hacking techniques, encryption, and other security best practices.
  • Cloud Computing: Master the skills to work with cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.

Data Professional

pluralsight data professional courses

For those interested in working with data, Pluralsight's Data Professional category covers data analysis, visualization, and machine learning skills. Some popular learning paths include:

  • Data Analysis: Learn to work with data using tools like Excel, R, and Python and perform statistical analysis, data cleaning, and data visualization.
  • Big Data: Gain the skills to process, analyze, and store large-scale data sets using Hadoop, Spark, and NoSQL databases.
  • Machine Learning: Dive into machine learning techniques using Python, TensorFlow, and other popular tools and frameworks.

Architecture & Construction

Pluralsight's Architecture & Construction category focuses on building design, engineering, and construction management skills. Popular learning paths in this category include:

  • Architectural Design: Master architectural design software like AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp, and learn about building information modeling (BIM) and 3D visualization.
  • Structural Engineering: Gain the skills to design and analyze structures using tools like SAP2000, ETABS, and more.
  • Construction Management: Learn about construction project management, cost estimation, scheduling, and other key aspects of the construction industry.

Manufacturing & Design

The Manufacturing & Design category covers topics related to product design, engineering, and manufacturing processes. Some popular learning paths in this category are:

  • Industrial Design: Master the skills needed for product design and development using tools like SOLIDWORKS, Fusion 360, and Rhino.
  • Mechanical Engineering: Learn about mechanical systems design, analysis, and simulation using tools like ANSYS and MATLAB.
  • Manufacturing Processes: Gain expertise in manufacturing processes, materials, and technologies, such as CNC machining, 3D printing, and injection molding.

Cloud Computing

pluralsight cloud computing

The Cloud Computing category on Pluralsight focuses on the skills and knowledge required to work with popular cloud platforms such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform (GCP). Some popular learning paths in this category include:

  • AWS Solutions Architect: Learn to design, build, and manage applications and infrastructure on AWS, covering services like EC2, S3, RDS, and more.
  • Azure Developer: Master the skills required to develop, deploy, and manage applications on Microsoft Azure, working with services like App Service, Azure Functions, and Cosmos DB.
  • Google Cloud Engineer: Gain expertise in developing, deploying, and managing applications and infrastructure on Google Cloud Platform, using services like Compute Engine, Cloud Storage, and Kubernetes.

Machine Learning / AI

pluralsight machine learning

Pluralsight's Machine Learning / AI category covers various topics for those interested in artificial intelligence, from fundamental concepts to advanced techniques. Popular learning paths in this category are:

  • Deep Learning: Dive into deep learning techniques using popular tools and frameworks like TensorFlow, Keras, and PyTorch.
  • Natural Language Processing: Learn to build AI applications to understand and process human language using sentiment analysis, text classification, and machine translation techniques.
  • Computer Vision: Master the skills to develop AI applications that can analyze and understand visual data, such as image recognition, object detection, and facial recognition.

Business Professional

Pluralsight's Business Professional category offers courses on various business and management topics, such as project management, leadership, and communication. Some popular learning paths in this category include:

  • Agile Project Management: Learn the principles and practices of agile project management, including Scrum, Kanban, and Lean methodologies.
  • Business Analysis: Master the skills needed to analyze business processes, identify areas for improvement, and implement effective solutions.
  • Communication and Collaboration: Improve your communication, presentation, and collaboration skills to become a more effective team member and leader.

Information & Cyber Security

pluralsight information and cyber security

The Information & Cyber Security category focuses on the skills needed to protect networks, systems, and data from cyber threats. Popular learning paths in this category are:

  • Ethical Hacking: Learn ethical hacking techniques to identify and exploit system, network, and application vulnerabilities.
  • Cybersecurity Analyst: Master the skills to detect, analyze, and respond to cyber threats using tools like SIEM, IDS/IPS, and more.
  • Security Certification Preparation: Prepare for popular cybersecurity certifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP, and CEH with targeted courses and practice exams.

Creative Professional

Pluralsight's Creative Professional category offers graphic design, video production, and animation courses for those looking to develop their creative skills. Some popular learning paths in this category include:

  • Graphic Design: Learn graphic design principles and master popular tools like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.
  • Video Production: Gain the skills to produce, edit, and share professional-quality videos using tools like Adobe Premiere Pro, After Effects, and DaVinci Resolve.
  • Animation and VFX: Dive into animation and visual effects, learning to create 3D models, animations, and VFX using tools like Blender, Maya, and Cinema 4D.

Examples of popular Pluralsight courses

Here are some popular Pluralsight courses that I've found to be highly informative and beneficial:

  • "JavaScript: Getting Started": This course provides a solid introduction to JavaScript, covering fundamental concepts and techniques.



"Python Fundamentals": Learn Python programming basics and develop a strong foundation for further study in data science, web development, and other areas.

  • "Angular: Getting Started": This course introduces you to the Angular framework, teaching you how to build dynamic, responsive web applications from scratch.
  • "C# Fundamentals": Gain a solid understanding of the C# programming language and learn how to build simple console and desktop applications. NET.
  • "Ethical Hacking: Reconnaissance/Footprinting": Learn the initial steps of ethical hacking, focusing on surveillance and footprinting techniques to gather information about a target.
  • "Introduction to Data Science with Python": This course covers the basics of data science and provides hands-on experience with Python libraries like NumPy, pandas, and matplotlib for data analysis and visualization.
  • "CompTIA Security+ (SY0-601) Certification Complete Course": Prepare for the CompTIA Security+ exam with this comprehensive course covering all exam objectives and providing practice exams.


Overall, Pluralsight offers diverse, high-quality courses and learning paths that cater to different interests and skill levels. Whether a beginner or a seasoned professional, you'll likely find valuable content to help you achieve your learning and career goals.

Tips for Finding the Perfect Pluralsight Course

As someone who has taken several Pluralsight courses, I've found the following tips helpful in choosing the right course for my needs:

Assess your current skill level

Before starting a new course, evaluate your current skill level and knowledge in the subject area. Pluralsight courses typically cater to beginners, intermediate learners, and advanced professionals, so choose a course that matches your experience.

Identify your learning objectives

Determine your learning goals before selecting a course. For example, are you looking to acquire a specific skill, enhance your knowledge, or prepare for a certification exam? Having clear objectives will help you choose the most suitable course.

Explore learning paths

Pluralsight offers learning paths that combine multiple courses to help you develop a comprehensive understanding of a subject area. These paths can guide you from beginner to advanced levels, making them an excellent option for those looking to progress in their careers.

Read course reviews and ratings

Review reviews and check ratings from other learners to get a sense of a course's quality and relevance. In addition, reviews can provide insights into the course content, instructor expertise, and the overall learning experience.

Preview course content

Pluralsight allows you to preview course content before enrolling. This feature helps you determine whether the course matches your learning objectives and whether the instructor's teaching style aligns with your preferences.

Pluralsight pricing structure

Pluralsight offers a tiered pricing structure with options for both monthly and annual subscriptions. At the time of my last subscription, the following pricing options were available:

Individual Plans:

  • Monthly: $29 per month
  • Annual: $299 per year (effectively $24.92 per month)
  • Premium: $449 per year (includes additional features like certification practice exams and interactive courses)

Business Plans:

  • Professional: $579 per user per year
  • Enterprise: Custom pricing based on the organization's needs



Pluralsight occasionally offers promotions and discounts, which can make the platform more affordable.

Pluralsight and Career Advancement

As an individual who's witnessed the transformative power of online learning firsthand, I can attest to the importance of choosing the right platform for career advancement. And with its vast array of courses and resources, Pluralsight has proven to be a formidable contender in this arena.


Pluralsight's primary focus is on technology and creative fields, which means its courses are tailored to help you develop the in-demand skills sought after by today's employers. From software development and IT operations to data science and cybersecurity, Pluralsight offers a treasure trove of knowledge for those looking to advance their careers.


But Pluralsight continues beyond merely providing courses. They also offer a comprehensive Skill IQ assessment to help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, ensuring you know exactly where to focus your learning efforts. This personalized approach saves you time and accelerates your progress toward becoming an expert in your chosen field.


Moreover, Pluralsight's learning paths, which are curated collections of courses designed to help you master specific skills or technologies, can be invaluable in your quest for career advancement. These learning paths act as a roadmap, guiding you through the material at a manageable pace while ensuring you thoroughly understand the subject matter.



In conclusion, if you're seeking a platform that can help propel your career to new heights, Pluralsight is undoubtedly worth considering. With its extensive course offerings, personalized learning approach, and focus on in-demand skills, Pluralsight has the potential to be a powerful ally in your journey toward professional success.

Can Pluralsight help with your career?

Yes, Pluralsight can significantly contribute to your career advancement. The platform offers a wide range of high-quality courses and learning paths, allowing you to acquire new skills or deepen your expertise in various domains. Additionally, many courses prepare you for industry-recognized certifications, which can boost your credentials and enhance your job prospects.

Real-life experiences and testimonials

Many learners have reported positive experiences using Pluralsight for career advancement. Here are some testimonials that showcase the impact of Pluralsight courses on users' careers:

  • "Pluralsight has played a crucial role in my professional development. The courses and learning paths have helped me gain new skills and stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends. As a result, I was able to secure a promotion at work."
  • "The certification courses on Pluralsight were instrumental in helping me pass my CompTIA Security+ exam. The in-depth content and practice exams provided the knowledge and confidence I needed to succeed."
  • "I used Pluralsight to learn web development from scratch. The platform's comprehensive learning paths and hands-on exercises helped me build a strong foundation in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Within a year, I landed a job as a junior web developer."



These testimonials highlight the potential of Pluralsight courses to positively impact your career by equipping you with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in your chosen field.

Pluralsight Reviews and Ratings

Rating distribution

As a long-time user of Pluralsight, the platform generally receives positive reviews and high ratings from its users. On average, Pluralsight courses and the platform often have ratings between 4 and 4.5 stars out of 5, indicating high customer satisfaction.

Customer experience

Pluralsight users often praise the platform for its high-quality courses, comprehensive learning paths, and excellent support. Many learners find the content engaging, relevant, and up-to-date with industry trends. Additionally, users appreciate the ease of use, the ability to download course content for offline viewing, and the inclusion of hands-on exercises and quizzes to reinforce learning.

Most helpful Pluralsight reviews

I've encountered several helpful Pluralsight reviews that provide insights into the platform's strengths and weaknesses. Here are some examples:

  • "Pluralsight has been an invaluable resource for my career development. The platform offers a vast range of high-quality courses that have allowed me to learn new skills and stay updated on the latest technologies. I particularly appreciate the learning paths, which have guided me through a structured progression in various subjects."
  • "I used Pluralsight to prepare for my CompTIA Security+ certification exam, and I couldn't be happier with the results. The course content was in-depth, and the practice exams provided a realistic simulation of the actual exam. Thanks to Pluralsight, I passed the exam with confidence."
  • "While I generally enjoy using Pluralsight, I wish the platform offered more courses in non-technical subjects. As a creative professional, I'd love to see more design, photography, and writing content."

Likes and dislikes about Pluralsight

Based on my own experience and the reviews I've seen, here are some common likes and dislikes about Pluralsight:



Likes:

  • High-quality courses and expert instructors
  • Comprehensive learning paths for structured progression
  • Downloadable course content for offline viewing
  • Excellent customer support and responsive staff
  • Regular updates to course content to stay current with industry trends


Dislikes:

  • Limited topic selection, especially for non-technical subjects
  • No free courses are available
  • Limited interaction with instructors and other students


Overall, Pluralsight is a highly-rated platform with a strong focus on quality and customer satisfaction. While there are some areas for improvement, the platform's strengths make it a valuable resource for learners and professionals looking to advance their skills and careers.

Comparing Pluralsight with Other Platforms

Pluralsight vs. Udacity

As a user of both Pluralsight and Udacity, they cater to slightly different audiences. Pluralsight offers a more extensive library of courses, particularly in software development and IT, whereas Udacity focuses on high-quality, in-depth courses and nanodegree programs that emphasize career readiness.


Pluralsight:

  • More courses in software development and IT
  • Comprehensive learning paths
  • Downloadable course content for offline viewing

Udacity:

  • Career-focused nano degree programs
  • Strong emphasis on real-world projects
  • Career services, such as resume reviews and interview coaching

Pluralsight vs. Coursera

Pluralsight and Coursera are popular e-learning platforms but differ in course offerings and target audiences. While Pluralsight primarily focuses on technical skills and professional development, Coursera offers a more diverse range of courses, including those in humanities, social sciences, and business.


Pluralsight:

  • Strong focus on technical skills and professional development
  • Comprehensive learning paths
  • More focused on individual learners

Coursera:

  • Wide variety of courses across multiple disciplines
  • University partnerships offering accredited courses and degrees
  • Offers both individual courses and Specializations

Pluralsight vs. edX

Pluralsight and edX serve different purposes in the online learning space. While Pluralsight specializes in technical courses for professionals, edX is a non-profit organization offering university-level courses across various disciplines, including accredited programs from top universities.


Pluralsight:

  • Emphasis on professional development and technical skills
  • Comprehensive learning paths for structured progression
  • More focused on individual learners


edX:

  • A broad range of university-level courses across various disciplines
  • Partnerships with top universities, offering accredited programs
  • Offers both individual courses and structured programs like MicroMasters and Professional Certificates


In summary, each platform has strengths and caters to different learning needs. If you want to develop your technical skills and enhance your professional development, Pluralsight may be your best choice. However, if you're interested in a more diverse range of subjects or seeking accredited programs, consider Udacity, Coursera, or edX.

Final Thoughts: Is Pluralsight Worth the Investment?

Who is Pluralsight for?

As someone who has used Pluralsight extensively, it is an excellent platform for learners and professionals looking to develop their technical skills and enhance their career prospects. In addition, Pluralsight is particularly well-suited for the following:

  • Software developers, IT professionals, and engineers seeking to deepen their expertise or learn new technologies
  • Individuals looking for structured learning paths that help them progress in their careers
  • Teams and organizations that require a comprehensive learning platform for employee skill development
  • Learners who value having a wide range of courses and learning paths in one platform

Evaluating Pluralsight's value for money

When considering Pluralsight's value for money, weighing its benefits against the investment required is essential. Some key factors to consider include:

  • The depth and breadth of Pluralsight's course library, which covers a wide range of technical topics
  • The quality of the course content, which is produced by industry experts and regularly updated to stay relevant
  • The flexibility of Pluralsight's learning paths, which allow you to follow a structured progression or pick and choose individual courses to suit your needs
  • The offline and mobile downloads feature, which enables you to learn on the go and at your own pace



While Pluralsight does not offer free courses, the platform's subscription-based pricing model provides access to its entire course library, making it a cost-effective option for those who plan to take multiple courses or follow a learning path.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is Pluralsight legit?

    Yes, Pluralsight is a legitimate and reputable online learning platform. Since its launch in 2004, it has become a leading technology and software development course provider. The platform boasts over 7,000 courses authored by industry experts and regularly updated to ensure relevance in today's rapidly evolving tech landscape.

    Pluralsight has also garnered numerous positive reviews and testimonials from users who have praised the platform's course quality, learning paths, and expert instructors. Furthermore, Pluralsight partners with leading technology companies like Microsoft, Google, and Adobe, further attesting to the platform's credibility in the tech industry.

    In conclusion, Pluralsight is a worthwhile investment for learners and professionals looking to develop their technical skills and advance their careers. The platform's comprehensive course library, learning paths, and expert instructors make it a valuable resource for staying up-to-date in today's fast-paced technology landscape. However, it's essential to consider your individual learning needs and goals to determine if Pluralsight is the right fit for you.

  • How often is Pluralsight's content updated?

    Pluralsight strives to keep its course content current and relevant to the ever-changing technology landscape. As a result, courses are updated regularly, and new courses are added to the platform frequently. As a user, you can expect fresh content and the latest industry trends in the course library.

  • Can I share my Pluralsight account with others?

    Pluralsight's terms of service do not permit sharing accounts with others. Each subscription is intended for individual use only. However, if you are part of an organization or team, Pluralsight offers business plans with multiple user accounts to meet your group's learning needs.

  • How does Pluralsight compare to other online learning platforms regarding course quality?

    Pluralsight is known for its high-quality course content from industry experts and professionals. In addition, the platform's focus on technology and software development courses allows it to provide specialized, in-depth content in those areas. While other platforms, such as Coursera, Udemy, and edX, offer a broader range of subjects, Pluralsight's niche focus enables it to excel in providing up-to-date, relevant content for technology professionals.

  • Does Pluralsight offer a money-back guarantee?

    Pluralsight does not offer a money-back guarantee for its monthly or annual subscription plans. However, the platform does provide a 10-day free trial, which allows you to explore the course library and try out the learning experience before committing to a subscription. This trial period should help determine if Pluralsight fits your learning needs and goals.

  • Can I download Pluralsight courses for offline viewing?

    Yes, Pluralsight allows you to download course content for offline viewing on both its desktop and mobile apps. This feature enables you to learn on the go, even when you don't have access to an internet connection. However, you must have an active Pluralsight subscription to access the downloaded content.

SkillEvolver Review Methodology

SkillEvolver.com follows a rigorous methodology to create transparent, high-quality reviews of online learning platforms and financial products. Our team consists of professionals with extensive experience in these fields. We prioritize reader interests, test products under real-world conditions, and regularly update our content. Our reviews cover categories such as customer support, usability, and certificates. Adhering to a strict code of conduct, we ensure honesty and transparency in our content, making SkillEvolver.com a trustworthy source for reviews and information.

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