Course description
This course is suitable for anyone who is either thinking about moving into copyediting or finds that they have to copyedit as part of their job but have had little formal training.
We strongly recommend that anyone taking CE1 has a background in proofreading. If you do not have this knowledge and skill already, we suggest that you first take our proofreading courses before embarking on learning to copyedit. Copyediting is more complex and requires more background knowledge than proofreading.
This course demonstrates the basics of how to copyedit. It explains the differences between proofreading and copyediting, and gives information and exercises on how a copyeditor works on various types of text. It is also designed as taster to answer the question 'Is copyediting for me?' On its own it does not provide the thorough grounding needed to work as a professional copyeditor.
By the time you’ve completed this training, you’ll understand:
- the differences between proofreading and copyediting
- how a copyeditor works on various types of text, both non-fiction and fiction
- the types of error a copyeditor is expected to spot and correct
- how to mark those errors efficiently using Track Changes in Word
- some of the common editorial conventions in British and US English and how to apply them effectively
- the basics of dealing with text elements such as notes, tables and illustrations
- an understanding of how to exercise judgement in how much to change and how to communicate effectively with the author on queries or suggestions
- the importance of obtaining sufficient guidance from the client about the work they expect you to do
- where copyediting fits into a variety of publishing processes.