5 Reasons You Should Take an Online Copy Editing Course
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As an aspiring copy editor, you might wonder whether taking an online copy editing course is worth the time and money. While a certification in copy editing isn’t mandatory, it can be a game-changer, especially if you hope to start your own business.
In this blog post, you’ll learn:
- Reasons to enroll in an online copy editing course
- New knowledge about the exciting world of copy editing
- What to consider when choosing a copy editing course
5 Reasons You Should Take an Online Copy Editing Course
Whether you’re new to copy editing or have some experience already, there are lots of benefits to taking a copy editing course.
1. To Make a Career Change
Tired of the Monday-to-Friday rat race? Looking to change careers? Online courses can be the ideal gateway to a flexible, varied new career like copy editing. Although there are no shortcuts (building a new career will always take time!), an online course can help expedite the process. You’ll have access to the most relevant, up-to-date learning materials, support from industry experts, and will often gain a certification to demonstrate your knowledge to potential employers or clients.
2. To Develop Relevant Skills
If you don’t know exactly what copy editing involves, an online course can get you up to speed and help you develop the relevant skills for the job. As a copy editor, you will be expected to:
- Correct spelling mistakes
- Fix grammatical errors
- Make sure punctuation is used correctly
- Address any formatting inconsistencies
- Ensure a consistent tone
- Edit (or remove) content that’s inappropriate for the intended audience
- Clarify meaning
- Fact-check information
A copy editing course will teach you exactly how to identify (and rectify) errors and inconsistencies in a document. Plus, many copy editing courses include practical exercises, which give you the opportunity to put what you’ve learned into practice and start to refine your skills.
3. To Showcase Your Expertise
If you’re new to copy editing, a copy editing course – especially one that comes with certification – can be a great way to demonstrate your skills to potential clients. Even if you don’t have much experience, the fact that you’ve taken the time to understand and develop the skills you need shows that you are committed to your work. Having a certification on your resume adds an extra level of credibility and could give you a competitive edge over those who haven’t taken the time to gain a certification.
4. To Boost Your Career Prospects
If you are already in the industry, a copy editing course is the perfect way to ensure your continuing professional development. It can help you refresh your existing skills and keep your knowledge completely up-to-date. This shows clients that you are still passionate about the industry and committed to maintaining the highest possible standards. You may even be able to raise your rates!
5. To Find Networking Opportunities
Enrolling in a course allows you to connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for the English language and editing. You can discuss your work, seek (and offer) support or mentorship, and reap all the benefits that come with being part of a community.
These connections could also benefit you in the future. For example, if one of your connections needs to outsource some of their work, you could be first in line! Similarly, if they need to turn down a project, they might recommend you for the opportunity.
Choosing a Copy Editing Course
There are lots of benefits to learning online, but you need to know how to choose the right online course for you. Here are six things to consider:
1. What Is the Duration of the Course?
It’s important to choose a course that fits around any other commitments you have. Think about how much time you have to dedicate to studying: Would you prefer full or part-time study? Would you prefer self-paced learning or a fixed schedule? Some courses are prescriptive, whereas others allow you to work through the content as and when it suits you.
2. How Are Lessons Formatted?
Do you have a preferred learning style? Make sure you choose a course that suits your needs. Some courses include elements like videos, quizzes, and try-it-yourself activities, whereas others are more textbook based.
3. What Does the Course Cover?
Examine the curriculum and course outline. Ensure that the course is up-to-date and covers all the relevant topics and skills. We recommend a course that:
- Covers the basics of copy, line, comprehensive, and developmental editing
- Explores the skills involved in editing different types of writing
- Teaches you about the editing workflows used in different industries
- Provides advice on working with clients (e.g., finding and communicating with clients and setting rates)
4. Will You Get a Certification?
Although certification isn’t always essential to secure work, there are several benefits. Firstly, adding a certification to your resume is a great way to prove your skills. It shows that you are committed to learning and that your knowledge is completely up-to-date. Secondly, certifications can help to build credibility, especially when you are new to an industry. Clients are more likely to trust your expertise if you hold a relevant certification.
5. Will You Have Access to Support?
While online courses are often more hands-off than in-person courses, it’s still important that you have access to support if you need it. Support can come in many forms, such as email or telephone support from a tutor, online “classrooms” or webinars, and online forums, and is essential if you have a question or concern. You don’t want to struggle in silence!
6. What Are Other Learners Saying?
Reading reviews and testimonials from past learners can provide valuable insights into the quality of the course and the instructors’ teaching styles and effectiveness. As well as the official site of the course provider, it’s worth checking other online reviews (for example on Trustpilot) to see what people have to say.
Becoming an Editor
Do you dream of working remotely as a freelance editor? Our comprehensive Becoming An Editor course can help you launch your new freelance career. Try it for free today!
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