Bootcamp
Copyediting/Proofreading Bootcamp
A unique, intensive workshop designed for those wanting to break into the publishing field as a copy editor or proofreader and for those who want to boost their skills.
Please see our main site, Editorial Bootcamp, for full information and registration.
After mentoring many beginning editors, Laura Poole and Carolyn Hassett came together to create a workshop for those interesting in copyediting and proofreading. In the age of corporate downsizing, most publishers are turning exclusively to freelancers (instead of staff members) for manuscript editing. There is a notable lack of training–especially at an academic publishing level–and many of those starting out in this field have a lot of questions on how to do the work and how to survive as a freelancer. We created this workshop to give a serious leg up to editors at nearly any level.
Carolyn and Laura have 30 years of publishing experience between them. They have worked for some of the highest level academic publishers in the world, and that experience forms the basis for this workshop. The content will focus on nonfiction scholarly copyediting and proofreading, although editors of all kinds of work are welcome to attend.
The seminar covers the following topics (and more!):
- Overview of the publishing process; style and reference guides; MS Word optimization, customization, plug-ins, and shortcuts
- Copyediting: spelling, punctuation, grammar, style, fact checking, queries, author voice, copyrighted material, style sheets, online tools, topic specialties
- Proofreading: stage of proofs, marking, materials, style sheet and spec sheets, steps, tools, specialty work, and PDF proofing.
- Work practices: tips and tricks, time management, communication, dealing with problems.
- Business practices: Getting and keeping clients, resumes, sample edits, rates and billing, follow-up options, networking, professionalism, and deadlines.
Here is what you get:
A full-day workshop
Practical information on how to copyedit and proofread, plus work flow and business practices. Lots of hands-on exercises and interactive time with instructors. Materials and refreshments included.
Take-home Materials
A thorough and helpful binder (200+ pages) of information and resources. Assessments (homework) available online.
One-on-One Assessments
Review of take-home sample work with personal critique, suggestions, and mentorship from your instructors.
Mentorship
As part of your tuition, you are entitled to have one of your instructors review your first paying project before turning it in to the client.
LinkedIn Group
Participation in a members-only editors’ group on LinkedIn for added communication, networking, and materials. Discussions and job leads also come in through this group.
Recommendation and Referrals
One or both of your instructors will provide a personalized LinkedIn recommendation for your general use once you have completed the course and take-home assessments. In addition, as our clients ask us for referrals for skilled editors, we can recommend you for appropriate projects.