This course prepares business and technical communicators to edit self-generated writings as well as writings prepared by others, including individual or collaborative authors.

If you do well in this course, you will be able to:

• Increase mastery of grammar, mechanics, punctuation, and spelling.
• Know and apply appropriate copy marking symbols.
• Understand editing terminology and the role of editing in document development, publication and use.
• Know the distinctions between copy editing and comprehensive editing and be able to decide when each is warranted.
• Adapt templates and prepare and revise forms to fit specific needs.
• Analyze and implement editorial needs and changes; know when to consult with an author; and develop a productive and cooperative attitude that includes a respect for writers.
• Recognize the limits of editorial privilege. Know the assumptions and conventions of the profession.
• Learn the methods for inquiry and verification of content accuracy, and copyright compliance, and understand their importance.
• Create a "seamless" final collaborative writing project with appropriate and consistent style, tone, headings, and visual design.

Last Updated: August 17, 2010