Copy-Editing
Copy-Editing one-day course
Through a series of practical exercises, you will learn to approach the printed word in a more analytical and critical way, allowing you to spot errors quickly and have the confidence to rewrite everyday text into concise, precise and compelling editorial copy at high speed. You will also have the opportunity to master the latest BSI copy editing and proof correction marks. Attendees will learn the essential parts of the BSI 5261-2:2005 Copy Preparation and Proof Correction Marks.
COURSE OUTLINE:
INTRODUCTION
Copy editing
Proofreading
Workflow from raw copy to published material
SPELLING
Common mistakes
Awkward challenges and how to meet them
Proofreading techniques
GRAMMAR
Common mistakes
Awkward challenges and how to meet them
PUNCTUATION
Common mistakes
Awkward challenges and how to meet them
Proofreading techniques
HOUSE STYLE
What should a house style achieve?
Style guide components
How to establish and maintain a style guide
Essential typography
ELEMENTS OF STYLE
Making dense copy easy to read
Making dry copy compelling to read
Writing catchy headlines, intros, captions
Rogues’ gallery: from clichés to mixed metaphors
FIGURES (consistency)
Handling numbers within text copy
Statistics
Tables and graphs
One-Hour examination – (this will be based on the main components covered in the Workshop: The exam will consist of raw copy subbing test followed by a set questions on short extracts of other copy along the lines of “rewrite this opening sentence”, “suggest three alternative headlines”, “remove the clichés”. Results and Certificates will be sent in the post).
Questions and answers
Date: To be confirmed
Workshop fee: £340 + VAT
Trainer: Alistair Dabbs (see Tutor Profile for details on Alistair)
