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
Applies Towards the Following Program(s)
- Creative Writing Certificate : Optional Courses
- Professional Writing Certificate specializing in Business and Technical Writing : Optional Courses
- Professional Writing Certificate specializing in Marketing and Public Relations : Optional Courses
Carol Parchewsky, holds an MFA in Creative Writing from Queens University of Charlotte, a BSc in Mechanical Engineering from University of Saskatchewan, and Certificates in Professional Management-PEG, e-Learning, Creative Writing from University of Calgary. Carol is past president of The Writers’ Guild of Alberta. She was fiction co-editor for QU Literary Magazine. Carol has been publishing flash fiction, short stories, and poetry since 2017. Topics of classes and sessions she’s taught include writing, ESL, and project management. She also provides mentoring, editing, and copy writing services for fiction, journals, and organizations.