Module 1 - An Introduction

• Introduction to the course
• Recommended references and resources
• House style guides
• Writing exercise 1.1: Typos
• Writing exercise 1.2: Transpositions
• Writing exercise 1.3: Spacing errors
• Writing exercise 1.4: Spelling errors
• Writing exercise 1.5: Compound nouns
• Writing exercise 1.6: Punctuation errors
• Writing exercise 1.7: Correct word usage
• Writing exercise 1.8: Apostrophes
• Writing exercise 1.9: Company names
• Writing exercise 1.10: Bias-free language

Module 2 - The Basics of Copy-editing and Proofreading

• Introduction
• What is Copy-editing?
• What is Proofreading?
• Writing Exercise 2.1: Correct, flag or query content-related errors in a given text (assessment and feedback task)
• Writing Exercise 2.2: Correct spelling, punctuation, grammar and formatting errors in a given text (assessment and feedback task)

Module 3 - Copy-editing in Practice

• Introduction
• Maintaining a Style Sheet
• Editing Exercise 3.1: Correct, flag or query content-related errors in a given text
• Editing Exercise 3.2: Correct spelling, punctuation, grammar and formatting errors in a given text
• Editing Exercise 3.3: Copy-edit a news snippet from an entertainment magazine on screen
• Editing Exercise 3.4: Copy-edit a section of fiction text on screen

Module 4 - Proofreading in Practice

• Introduction
• Proofreading Symbols
• Example Hard-copy Proofread
• Example: Marked-up PDF
• Editing Exercise 4.1: Proofread a section of text on screen
• Editing Exercise 4.2: Proofread a section of text on paper

Module 5 - Polishing Your Skills

• Introduction
• Editing Exercise 5.1
• Editing Exercise 5.2
• Editing Exercise 5.3
• Editing exercise 5.4
• Where to look for work
• What to charge
• How to invoice

“I really enjoyed the course and found it challenging in a positive way. I have learnt new skills which I can apply to my job.”

Aleksandra Mijovic, Copy-Editing and Proofreading Course

How does the course work?

Detailed class notes covering the content of each module are e-mailed to students. At the end of each module, students will be required to complete several writing exercises. Once the writing assignment has been completed and e-mailed to the lecturer, an assessment and feedback will be sent to the student, and the module will be considered complete.

Conditions of Certification:

Students will receive an SA Writers College Certificate upon successful completion of the course, provided they meet the following conditions:

• Students must have completed all assignments.
• Students are expected to attain a minimum average of 50% for the course.
• The course must have been completed within five months of registration.

Minimum Estimated Time Commitment:

• Reading time: Minimum eight hours depending on your reading speed. A read-through of a recommended style guide for grammar and punctuation rules is vital.
• Writing time: Minimum of ten hours

We would love to chat to you if you have any questions about our writing courses.

If you need some advice about the best course or writing field for you, drop us a line or give Koos or Nichola a call at 021 813 9224. We can tell you about going rates in the field, chance of publishing success and general writing career options both in South Africa and internationally.

• If you have questions about how we work, we have information in our FAQ section and How We Train section.
• For information on our refund policy, please read our policies here.
• To register for the course, please click here: