Copyediting 1: Introduction (e-learning)

Start to build the essential skills needed for successful copyediting – at your own pace. 

Whether you’re exploring a new career path or strengthening a skill you already use, Copyediting 1: Introduction offers you structured, practical learning grounded in real editorial practice. 

This online course is the first step in the CIEP’s suite of core copyediting training – designed by industry professionals to give you a solid foundation in what copyediting is, and how it works in professional settings.  

Copyediting 1: Introduction is also offered as a virtual learning course, including live, weekly sessions held on Zoom and delivered by a CIEP tutor. 

Who is this course for?

Copyediting 1: Introduction is the ideal place to start if you want to learn about the fundamental skills required of a copyeditor. This course is for you if:

• you’re thinking about a career in copyediting
• you're already working as a copyeditor but haven't had any formal training
• your role involves some copyediting and you'd like to learn more about good practice. 

What you'll learn

By the end of this introductory course, you'll understand: 

• the differences between proofreading and copyediting and where copyediting fits into a variety of publishing processes
• how a copyeditor works on various types of text, both non-fiction and fiction
• the types of error a copyeditor is expected to spot and correct and how to mark those errors efficiently using Track Changes in Word
• some of the common editorial conventions in British and US English and how to apply them effectively
• the basics of dealing with text elements such as notes, tables and illustrations
• how to exercise judgement over how much to change, and how to communicate effectively with the author on queries or suggestions
• the importance of obtaining sufficient guidance from the client about the work they expect you to do. 

How does the course work?

Copyediting 1: Introduction includes six units, each containing a set of study notes that introduce you to relevant copyediting concepts, as well as self-assessed exercises for you to put your learning into practice: 

Unit 1: What copyediting is

Where copyediting fits in the publishing process and how it differs from proofreading; how far to go when copyediting; how a client brief can help you judge the level of intervention.

Unit 2: Copyediting fiction

The particular skills and approaches needed when copyediting fiction, including good editorial judgement and diplomacy.

Unit 3: Copyediting non-fiction

The features of non-fiction texts that a copyeditor must deal with, and an introduction to the concept of notes and referencing.

Unit 4: Copyediting humour

What the copyeditor needs to be aware of when editing humorous texts, including knowledge of the context of the work and the subject being sent up.

Unit 5: Illustrations and tables

The complications of editing illustrations with text, and how the copyeditor deals with them.

Career relevance and progression

Copyediting 1: Introduction is the first course in the CIEP's suite of core copyediting training. It's a great starting point for anyone who hasn't previously completed any formal training in copyediting, and should be followed by Copyediting 2: Headway.

Please note: By booking onto an event or training course via the CIEP website, you are entering into a formal contract with the CIEP and accepting the following terms and conditions. Please make careful note of them, particularly regarding refunds and cancellations. If you have any questions please get in touch with us via email here.