Basics of Editing and Proofreading

If you have strong skills in grammar and a sharp eye for typographical errors and clunky writing, and are considering entering tech comm field as an editor or proofreader; want to improve your editing and proofreading skills; or are a tech writer or designer who wants to learn what it takes to add editing or proofreading to the skillsets you can offer to employers or clients, this session is for you.

Participants will take away information about necessary skills and characteristics, marks and symbols, style manuals, editing vs. proofreading, levels of editing, using Microsoft Word and Acrobat/PDFs, and working effectively with clients and colleagues. Thanks to a detailed handout, you will also expand your files of helpful resources, including publications, organizations, discussion lists and more.

This practical overview is applicable to both freelance and in-house colleagues, as well as both newcomers to technical communication and established writers, designers and others who would like to know more about the editing and proofreading side of the profession.