Using the Thinkific API: What is My API?

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Thinkific is an all-inclusive learning platform that eliminates coding and advanced technological knowledge requirements for its customers.

It offers everything you need to build a high-quality online course or membership system relying on just one platform. All of this means that Thinkific takes the strain off users who may not know (or want to know) much about coding and Application Programming Interface or API. 

Thinkific also offers a considerable amount of accessible reference material. This write-up provides an expert overview on how accessing site data through API allows developers to extend Thinkific’s functionality.

Thinkific API

What’s an API?

API is the acronym for Application Programming Interface; it works as a messenger that allows applications to communicate through data transfer. In other words, API lets applications, databases, and devices communicate with one another. For example, your mobile phone uses an API to let individual apps communicate with your mobile phone’s sensors and components securely and predictably.

A personalized API makes your Thinkific experience better and more profitable. The main benefits of using API with Thinkific include.

  • Access databases to integrate and enhance the functionalities of an application.
  • Add a layer of security to personalized information.
  • Create developer-friendly, well-documented, and easily understandable content. 

Note that Thinkific customers must be on the Pro + Growth Plan or above to access the API

API key

How to Access API Code on Thinkific?

Thinkific provides a variety of integrations to support your business journey. Some of these integrations require an API key to integrate and function better with your site. It assists your site in accessing deep-rooted information available on the third-party application.

Here’s how you can access API settings to get your personalized key.

  1. Login to your Thinkific site.
  2. Go to “Settings.”
  3. Select the “Code & Analytics” tab.
  4. Use the sub-menu or scroll down to the API section.
  5. You can highlight and copy your unique API key right under the same heading.

The “Reset API Key” option is only advisable to use in some instances, as it can diminish connection with integrations.

Using the Thinkific API

API is essential when you want to take advantage of third-party platforms.

It helps make a seamless connection between your site and desired integration. An API key is like a banking PIN code or password, allowing applications to access your site data through the Application Programming Interface.

It is, therefore, vital that you keep your API key a secret and never share it publicly.

If an unreliable third-party source gets access to your site data, it can get a hold of valuable information.

This valuable data could include payment gateways, marketing funnels, and student information. The harmful source could also make API requests on your behalf – this would be bad, and so security is essential. 

Third Party App Thinkific

Third-Party Integrations

An adequate amount of opportunities are present on Thinkific to explore and benefit from high-tech computing. Thinkific API is an addition to help developers prosper in their online business. 

APIs are usable in two primary use cases, both differing on the method of authorization. These include:

  • Private Apps

Private apps are bespoke extensions that experienced developers can build and use alongside their Thinkific course. The recommended method of authorization requires a paid Thinkific plan and an API Key and Subdomain.

  • Public Apps

Public apps are to be installed by and distributed to all Thinkific users. The recommended authorization method uses Authorization Code flow. To access it, create a Thinkific Partner Account and register an App to access your credentials.

API connects your site to third-party integrations. It helps communicate all the data regarding your site. The possibilities are endless, as it helps automate your work and build a custom online presence. For example, connecting to Zapier leads to thousands of third-party integrations.

How to create a webhook on Thinkific

Webhooks

Webhooks are a coding tool that notifies your systems about data changes and updates. It includes predefined instructions that assist in reducing the need to request data from other systems. All actions are customizable and can be accessed here.

With a one-time setup, you can gain notifications on all events happening on your Thinkific site automatically and in real-time. 

  • Creating Webhooks

You can create webhooks in one of two ways:

  1. Automatically using the Webhooks API
  2. Manually using the Thinkific Admin UI.
  • Modifying and Viewing Webhooks

Once you create your Webhook, you can view, edit, test, or delete the action by viewing success rates.

  • Responding and Verifying Webhooks

Triggered actions notify the registered Webhook URL. You also need to send a 200 OK response to assure it is working.

Webhooks enables Thinkific to extend, customize, and integrate data with custom extensions or applications. Developers who are not yet comfortable using API can register apps on Webhooks to locate all activities on your site.

Administrative Tasks

It is a challenging task to manage an entire website-based business. But Thinkific has diverse ways that contribute to your journey and make it straightforward. Administrative tasks are the dominant part of your online success; it requires effort to maintain and record operations while overviewing sales and marketing. 

Admin API helps connect Thinkific to different sources that perform various admin and site Owner-related activities. This API is authorized through OAuth or API Key by access tokens given to registered Thinkific sites. It helps highlight data from the perspective of a site owner.

You need an endpoint that helps connect your API to the notification or software program of your choice. You can use the Admin API to connect to the following information.

  • Bundles
  • Memberships
  • Contents
  • Coupons
  • Courses
  • Reviews
  • Enrollments
  • Groups
  • Analytics
  • Instructors
  • Orders
  • Promotions

It is crucial to know that the uses are not limited to the preceding points. Several endpoints are available for each function.

Bottom Line

When it comes to the ever-evolving online business world, learning a bit about leading-edge technology helps overcome several obstacles.

The same is the case with API; it assists you in improving productivity by providing better means of communication between applications. 

Fortunately, Thinkific supports every user with sufficient knowledge on APIs, their uses, and mode of action.

It helps notify any events happening within your site and connects to third-party apps to gain additional features.

There is more to learn about the Thinkific API and integrations. However, you don’t need to know everything before you begin.

With the information we’ve provided above, you now know everything you need to start using Thinkific’s Application Programming Interface on your site safely and securely.

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About Authors

  • Samuel Fletcher

    Samuel Fletcher is a entrepreneur with over 15 years in online course development. With an in-depth understanding of online course platforms, including Kajabi, Thinkific, LearnWorlds, and more, he has not only created courses on these platforms but has also assisted others in their course creation journeys. Beyond his hands-on experience, Sam is a passionate blogger, online business mentor, and a proactive contributor to community initiatives. His commitment to excellence and belief in dedication, perseverance, and unwavering commitment drives his success. Recognizing the gap in unbiased, quality information about online course platforms, he co-founded SupplyGem. In addition to his leadership role, Samuel serves as a Technical Writer at SupplyGem, sharing his expertise with a broader audience. Moreover, he's an active member of professional associations such as the Association for Talent Development (ATD), The Learning Guild, and others, underlining his dedication to continuous learning and industry advancement.

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Disclosure: I am an independent Thinkific Affiliate, not an employee. I receive referral payments from Thinkific. The opinions expressed here are my own and are not official statements of Thinkific.

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