Professional Editing & Proofreading

• Introduction to professional copy editing
• Editing symbols and skills
• An introduction to proofreading
• Grammar and spelling
• Punctuation and capitalisation
• Setting up in business
• How to sell your services
• Implications of new technology
• Electronic publishing
• Other avenues for freelancers

Welcome to the World of Publishing

We distinguish between the copy editor's and proofreader's roles: their skills and work. Other supporting and related jobs are also discussed. The dos and don'ts of your new jobs are revealed. You test your own proofreading skills.

Proofreading Symbols and Skills

This includes a detailed look at proofreaders' symbols and how to use them. We teach you how to read proofs and encourage you to practise. We also look at house styles, reference systems, dates and times.

An Introduction to Copy Editing

Learn how to read, revise and mark up an author's typescript as a copy editor. Content and layout are addressed. This module includes a reference guide to proofreading marks and suggestions for background reading.

Grammar and Spelling

We look at words, sentences and paragraphs - deconstructing and making sense of them. We also learn the rules and principles governing their use. Spelling guidelines, common errors and confusions are also covered.

Punctuation and Capitalisation

We look at the critical role of the main punctuation marks (full stops, ellipses, semicolons, colons, commas, apostrophes, dashes, hyphens, inverted commas, exclamation and question marks) with examples. Common problem areas - like apostrophes - are covered. Rules and guidelines are given, including tips on when to break them.

Setting up in Business

We cover business types, tax, insurance and income-affecting benefits. Managing your finances - bank accounts, invoicing, tracking income and expenditure - are discussed. We suggest ways to achieve a professional image, self-marketing and time management skills.

How to Sell Your Services

This module covers the nitty-gritty of finding work as a freelance copy editor or proofreader. You learn what organisations need your services and how you can successfully approach them - we include sample letters. We teach you how to overcome the 'lack of experience' burden. A comprehensive list is included of publishers who use freelance editors and proofreaders, plus some organisations who can help your business grow.

Help from New Technology

We look at the implications of new technology for freelance editors and proofreaders: the impact on current practices and emerging job opportunities. The three main electronic media are examined. Learn how electronic publishing differs from traditional publishing. You are introduced to basic required skills, including HTML and flowcharts. Included are industry contacts for job opportunities.

How to Earn Money in Related Fields

The focus is on writing: its various outlets and the best ways to start deriving an income. We also take a brief look at other options, including indexing, rewriting, translation, research, photography and illustrations, and how you can put these to good use.

Conclusion and Final Assessment

We look at how you can continue polishing and developing your professional skills, including ten tips for getting more work in copy editing and proofreading. Common causes of student confusion are reviewed and clarified. We end with your final assignment, subjecting your editing and proofreading skills to a searching examination.