SparkNotes, originally part of a website called The Spark, is a company known for its educational content and literature study guides. It offers summaries and analyses for a vast array of subjects and literary works, which are aimed primarily at assisting students to better understand and critique literary texts. SparkNotes covers a wide range of genres including classical literature, poetry, and modern novels. Notable titles in their series include guides for To Kill a Mockingbird, The Great Gatsby, and Hamlet.

The site and its content were created by Harvard students Sam Yagan, Max Krohn, Chris Coyne, and Eli Bolotin in 1999. It has since evolved into a key resource for educational support, offering study guides on a variety of subjects beyond literature, such as history, science, and math. The guides are often used by students looking for supplementary study aids.

The founders originally launched SparkNotes as a more contemporary and accessible alternative to older study guide services. Their aim was to provide free, concise, and easy-to-understand guides for students. Over the years, the brand has expanded to include web content, books, and educational products, while maintaining a focus on helping students and lifelong learners understand and discuss cultural and academic topics.