EDIT220

Basic Proofreading

Typographical errors are funny only in other people’s reports, brochures, memos, websites, or emails. Everyone responsible for written material needs to know how to proofread.

Topics in this course include the proofreading process, how to mark copy for correction, the difference between copy editing and proofreading, computers and proofreading, and when you should hire professionals.

Prerequisite(s):

Editing Certificate students must complete Editors and Editing: An Introduction before taking this course. There is no prerequisite for students who are not registered in the certificate program.

Section Session(s) Date/time* Campus Instructor(s) Cost** Registration
EDIT220-VA11342 1 Van Barbara Tomlin $250 Closed
EDIT220-VA11342 1 Friday
Aug 23, 2013
9:30 am–4:30 pm
Van Barbara Tomlin $295 Register
EDIT220-SU11371 1 Sur Theresa Best $295 Register
EDIT220-ON11371 - Oct 15–28, 2013
(Register by Oct 1, 2013)
Online Lana Okerlund $295 Register
EDIT220-VA11371 2 Saturdays
Nov 23–30, 2013
10 am–1 pm
Van Barbara Tomlin $295 Register
EDIT220-VA11411 2 2 Saturdays
Spring 2014
Van Barbara Tomlin $295 Begins Fall 2013
EDIT220-VA11441 2 2 Saturdays
Summer 2014
Van Barbara Tomlin $295 Begins Fall 2013
EDIT220-VA11442 1 Saturday
Summer 2014
Van Barbara Tomlin $295 Begins Fall 2013

* This course involves 6 instructional hours.

** Members of the Editors' Association of Canada are eligible for a 10 percent discount. Please contact us to confirm your membership and register. You may not combine discounts.

What will I learn?

At the end of the course, you will be able to do the following:

  • Describe the stages in the editorial process, including the place of proofreading
  • List and describe each of the proofreader’s responsibilities
  • Distinguish between live copy and dead copy
  • Proofread a document by reading the live copy against the dead copy, both alone and with a partner
  • Proofread a document without dead copy
  • Use proofreading symbols to mark copy and explain why using the standard symbols is important
  • Develop and use an editorial style sheet when proofreading, and explain why style sheets are important
  • Add queries to a document when information is missing or there are inconsistencies

How will I learn?

  • Lectures
  • Class discussions
  • In-class exercises

How will I be evaluated?

Your grade will be based on a final exam (100%), which is required for certificate students and optional for others.

Textbooks and learning materials

We will provide custom course materials.