What does tutorial mean?
In modern English, a tutorial is usually a lesson or guide designed to explain a subject, process, or practical task. Its best-known use is for step-by-step instructional material, such as an online article or video explaining how to use software, operate equipment, or complete a project. The word can also refer to a small class or instructional session, particularly one for beginners. In older usage, a tutorial could mean a formal lecture or discourse, but that sense is now comparatively uncommon. The noun has a neutral, practical connotation and is frequently paired with words such as “online,” “video,” and “step-by-step.” The less common adjective “tutorial” means relating to or intended as a tutorial. Together, these meanings reflect the word’s long connection with instruction: from an extended teaching occasion to concise learning material designed to help someone solve a specific problem.
A lesson, guide, course, or instructional session intended to teach a subject or explain how to perform a task.
"The website provides a clear tutorial for installing the software."
Modern usage commonly refers to instructional material, especially an online or video lesson with clearly sequenced steps.
Of, relating to, or intended as a tutorial.
"The editor included a tutorial link beneath the video."
This adjective is relatively uncommon and usually appears in attributive position.
The plural is tutorials. The noun is countable and commonly takes a singular or plural article.
"The library offers several free tutorials for beginners."
The word once commonly meant a formal lecture; today it often means the screen-based guide that gets you through a task.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does tutorial come from?
The word entered English in the late 18th century through French tutorial, based on Latin tutorialis, meaning “of or relating to a tutor.” Its ultimate source is the Latin tutor, a word for a guardian or teacher. The same root is reflected in English cognates and derivatives such as tutelage, tutorship, and tutoring.
Related word forms
How tutorial is actually used
The noun is neutral in tone and is especially common in educational, technical, and software-related contexts. The adjective is much less common in general use and usually appears attributively, as in “tutorial video.”
Easily confused with tutorial
A tutorial is a lesson or set of instructions, whereas a tutor is the person who teaches or supervises a learner.