EDIT225
Proofreading
Proofreading is the final step in editorial quality control. It looks for textual and design flubs or infelicities in a test run (proof) of the final product.
The course starts by introducing the communication tools and practices used in proofreading. Then it looks at the three main areas of concern in proofreading: communicating changes, design concerns, and querying. Throughout, students apply the communication tools and practices used in proofreading across genres, including informational documents, creative narratives, and visuals.
The final assignment for this course is due one week after the course ends.
Overview
Location: Online
Format: Self-paced within deadlines set by instructor
Duration: 4 weeks
Tuition: $485
Can be applied to:
Editing Certificate
Upcoming Offerings
Register for a course at any time, with the option to apply to a program later.
- Wed, Sep 16 - Tue, Oct 13 (self-paced within deadlines)
- Wed, Oct 28 - Tue, Nov 24 (self-paced within deadlines)
- Wed, Jan 13 - Tue, Feb 9 (self-paced within deadlines)
- Wed, Mar 17 - Tue, Apr 13 (self-paced within deadlines)
What you will learn
By the end of the course, you will be able to do the following:
- Define proofreading and its place within the publishing process.
- Identify key terminology, tools, and resources used by proofreaders in print and electronic media.
- Apply proofreading symbols, digital markup tools, and strategies to mark corrections systematically.
- Use a structured proofreading method to assess both textual and visual elements of a document.
- Determine project expectations, make appropriate queries, and use a style sheet.
How you will learn and be evaluated
Prepare to spend 6-10 hours per week on coursework, including:
- Readings
- Assignments and exercises
- Online discussions
- Reviewing feedback on assignments
You will be evaluated on:
- Assignments
- Participation in online discussions
Learning Materials
No textbook is required. We will provide all course materials online.
Recommended reading:
The Chicago Manual of Style, 17th or 18th Edition. University of Chicago Press, 2017 or 2024.
Note: Courses use author-date style citation.
Once you begin the course you’ll be sent SFU library access information for this text. Alternatively, you may wish to access a 30-day free trial of the online version of The Chicago Manual of Style.
Technical Requirements
For online courses, you will need a computer with audio and microphone that is connected to the internet. Canvas is the online system that will be used for the course. For more information and online support, visit Online Learning.
This course requires:
- A printer to print the practice exercises and assignments
- Ability to scan completed assignment pages and upload as a single document to the online course site
- High-speed internet access
- Adobe Acrobat Reader
- Microsoft Word (2010 or newer)
English Language Requirements
To succeed in this course, you will need an advanced level of written and spoken English. If you are unsure whether your English language skills are sufficient, we recommend you complete the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) with the following minimums:
- Overall band score minimum 6.5
- No band below 6.0
- Writing band score minimum 8.0
Please note we can’t refund your registration fees after the course start date if you find your English language skills are not adequate.
If you have questions or concerns about your English language proficiency, we encourage you to contact your local IELTS Test Centre.