Copyediting 2: Headway
Develop and refine your copyediting skills with the next level of professional training.
Whether you’re ready to build on your existing knowledge or take your editing work to the next level, Copyediting 2: Headway offers structured, practical learning grounded in real editorial practice.
This online course builds on the foundations introduced in Copyediting 1: Introduction and forms the next stage in the CIEP’s suite of copyediting training. Designed by industry professionals, it helps you deepen your understanding of copyediting processes, strengthen your editorial judgement and develop greater confidence in professional practice.
Who is this course for?
Copyediting 2: Headway is designed for editors who already understand the fundamentals of copyediting, either through experience, training or both, and want to develop their skills further. This course is for you if:
- you've completed Copyediting 1: Introduction and would like to build upon the knowledge and skills you've learnt
- you've been working as an editor for a while but without any formal training
- you want to complete an assessed course and receive feedback on your work from a dedicated and knowledgeable tutor.
What you'll learn
By the end of this course, you'll understand:
- what a copyeditor does
- how a copyeditor works on a variety of texts, from public information to academic books
- more about editorial conventions in British and US English
- the technicalities surrounding the editing of images
- how to edit notes and references efficiently
- how to copyedit headings, lists and quotations.
How does the course work?
Copyediting 2: Headway includes five units, each containing a set of study notes that introduce you to relevant copyediting concepts, as well as self-assessed exercises and tutor-marked assignments. When you enrol on the course, you'll be assigned a personal tutor who will support you through the course, mark your assignments and provide you with feedback to support your learning.
Unit 1: What a copyeditor does
The main tasks a copyeditor needs to perform and how to present typescripts in a clear and helpful way for the typesetter.
Unit 2: Displayed matter
How to deal with displayed matter such as headings, lists and quotations from other works.
Unit 3: Editorial style
The concept of editorial style in more depth, including how this can differ between British and US English.
Unit 4: References and bibliographies
An exploration of three commonly used referencing systems and how to ensure you apply these correctly and consistently to a text.
Unit 5: Images: photographs and figures
The challenges posed by editing different types of artwork and the need to work systematically when editing these features.
Career relevance and progression
Copyediting 2: Headway is the next course in the CIEP’s suite of copyediting training, building on the foundations introduced in Copyediting 1: Introduction. It’s ideal for editors who already have a basic understanding of copyediting and want to strengthen their skills, confidence and professional practice before progressing to Copyediting 3: Progress.
FAQs
Do I have to complete Copyediting 1: Introduction before enrolling on this course?
If you haven't previously completed any copyediting training or gained any copyediting experience, we highly recommend starting with Copyediting 1: Introduction.
How long do I have to complete the course?
You'll have six months to complete the course from the date that you enrol. As per our terms and conditions, short extensions can be offered if necessary.
How much time will I need to complete the course?
We estimate that you'll need 20 to 25 hours to complete the course, but this will depend on your learning style and personal preferences.
What software do I need to complete the course?
You'll need access to, and familiarity with the functions of word processing programs – this course assumes use of Microsoft Word (Office 365) – particularly Styles and Track Changes.
Which type of English does the course teach?
The course follows and teaches the conventions of British English.
Is the course worth any CIEP upgrade points?
Yes, completion of the course results in 2 upgrade points. Passing the course results in 5 upgrade points.
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.