Editing for Style: A Hands-On Lesson in Copyediting

A good copyedit is more than just a spell-check—it’s sensitive to author voice and intent and makes the text more accessible for the reader.

Details

In this class, you’ll learn the basics of good copyediting and implement those basics over a number of sample texts. We’ll start with becoming familiar with The Chicago Manual Style and Merriam Webster, then move on to the different things copy editors should always be looking for when approaching a text.

What you will learn

Students will have the opportunity to get hands-on experience in class, as well as feedback from the instructor and peers on their work. We’ll also discuss tips for how to get freelance copyediting jobs.

Workshop takeaways

• Familiarity with The Chicago Manual of Style, Merriam Webster, and house style guides • Experience copyediting example texts in a number of genres • Personalized feedback from instructor and peers on copyedits • Skills to craft style sheets for copyediting jobs

What you will be reading

Recommended readings: Dreyer’s English by Benjamin Dreyer, A World Without “Whom” by Emmy J. Favilla, BuzzFeed style guide, Conscious Style Guide

Additional info

In an effort to center anyone who feels underrepresented in the industry—whether you're BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, disabled, or have another underrepresented identity, and for whom the fee might be a financial hardship—we'd love to offer a scholarship for two participants. Our goal is to eliminate barriers and make our classes as accessible and equitable as possible. If you find that you are interested in this class but would need a scholarship to enroll, please send an email to kailey@chillsubs.com by April 24 with the subject line "Jordan Koluch Class Scholarship," and two writers will be selected through a lottery.

Workshop Meeting Dates:
May 7
May 14
May 21