WRI 121 - Editing for Structure
Course Description
Structural editing, also known as substantive editing, is the first step of the editing process. Structural editors organize content into a logical sequence to help writers clearly convey their argument or goal and meet the needs of their audience. They look at how the content is organized, if there is anything missing and suggest improvements in a way that builds a positive relationship with clients and writers.
These skills are important for editors and writers of all types including creative, non-fiction, technical and professional writing. This course uses real-world examples and activities to walk you through this first part of the editing process. You will learn practical tips on ways to reorganize a text or document.
Course Details
By completion of this course, successful students will be able to:
- Reorganize material into a logical sequence that is appropriate for the goal and audience
- Create an outline to guide the suggested revisions
- Identify repetitive, impertinent, inaccurate or missing content
- Revise, cut, or expand material to meet length requirements
- Recommend headings, subheadings, visual aids and navigation elements to highlight key information
- Recognize material that would be better presented as a table, diagram or infographic
- Communicate clearly when recommending broad editorial changes