Choosing a start date can be tricky for some because it requires you to think out the steps needed in between. Here is an easy way to calculate how much time you'll realistically need:
• 1-2 Weeks for Prep (depending on your current schedule / abilities)
• 2-3 Weeks for Promotion (two if no early bird, three if you are doing an early bird pricing)
Therefore, you need at least 4 weeks of lead time if you are not doing an early bird discount and 5 weeks of lead time if you are doing an early bird discount. Look at your calendar and choose a date 6 weeks from now (one week to digest and plan out this material).
Other important factors when choosing a start date:
• Think about holidays - both US and Canada (and other International locales if you have a very global audience base)
• When picking your time, assess your target market - if they are employed, evenings may be a better fit - for me, 8pm Eastern Standard Time was always a great class time