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Intro to Copy Editing

Learn copy editing skills, master a copy test, and get freelance work as an editor

Course is closed.
Intro to Copy Editing

WHEN 6 weeks, September 10 - October 22
Chats Wednesdays, 8-9 pm ET

WHERE Online. Click here for more information.

LEVEL Intro

PRICE
$425 ($400 for )
more info

Course Details

If you're a true stickler for detail and get a special charge out of spotting grammar errors and typos, copy editing is calling you. This course is for anyone who wants to break into copy editing -- or just feel more confident wrangling words. We'll cover the basics, from proofreader's marks to essential rules of grammar and punctuation. By the end, you'll be a pro at creating smooth, readable copy.

In this class, you will learn:

  • How to determine when a sentence needs tweaking or is best left alone
  • How to understand copy editing lingo, including proofreading symbols and common terms
  • How to navigate stylebooks
  • How to prepare for a copy editing test
  • How to find the best reference materials for a copy editing assignment
  • How to tailor a resume and where to find copy editing jobs

By the end of class, you will have:
An overall knowledge of the copy editing field and the tools to pursue a job as a copy editor.

Admission Requirements:
Please submit a letter of interest which includes a brief work history.

The online classroom has several interactive components:

  • Instructors post lectures once a week. You can read them online, print them, or download them at your convenience.
  • Students post completed assignments for feedback and discussion by the instructor and class.
  • Weekly chats allow your class to get together via instant message. Transcripts are available for review if you can't attend.
  • Technical support is available from mediabistro.com staff.

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Instructor Bio

Rebecca Smith Hurd's Courses

Intro to Copy Editing – (Class starts January 6)

Rebecca Smith Hurd
Rebecca Smith Hurd is an all-around word nerd whose journalism career spans more than 20 years. For the past three, she's maintained a successful freelance business as an editor, writer and communications consultant. Hurd specializes in producing clear, concise and clever copy -- and enjoys helping others do the same. Her job experience includes a six-year stint (2000 to 2006) as assistant managing editor of Wired, which during her tenure earned three nominations and won a National Magazine Award for general excellence. She holds a bachelor's degree in news reporting and editing from San Jose State University.

Testimonials


Rebecca's material was fresh, the assignments interesting, and she was a fun, dynamic, informative speaker. My experience with Rebecca has made me eager to sign up for other classes with mediabistro. -- Trina Enriquez, copy editor, Sunset Magazine

"Rebecca provides valuable information about copy editing and hilarious anecdotes from the publishing world. Her teaching style engages, informs, and entertains." -- Evan James

"I highly recommend studying with Rebecca. She designed a thorough and challenging curriculum and taught it with wit and warmth. She was highly accessible and always on point." -- Corey Williams

"Rebecca has a vast expanse of knowledge and is more than happy to let students pick her brain while challenging them to improve." -- Lindsay Sandor

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