Proofreading and Editing Skills
Proven Tips from Top ProfessionalsSending out well-composed documents free of error is critical to the credibility of individuals and organizations. In this half-day session, you’ll learn tips and techniques for ensuring a professional image in all written communication.
— “Quinn asked us what we wanted to know and explained in a way that was understandable and practical.” (more)
Length: One 8-hour session
Who Should Attend: Anyone who is responsible for error-free documentation or supports management and others by editing memos, letters, or reports.
Benefits:
- Project a positive, professional image in all written communication.
- Save time and ensure document quality.
- Increased confidence in your ability as a writer.
By the end of this program, you will be able to:
- Explain the practical differences between rewriting, substantive editing, line editing, and proofreading.
- Query items like audience and objective before you start editing.
- Find and correct logic and syntax mistakes in your own writing.
- Use copyediting marks to mark up copy by hand.
- Spot grammar and punctuation mistakes and edit sentences to read correctly.
- Explain where most writing errors occur.
- Manage your time and work space to proofread more effectively.
- Increase speed and accuracy in finding errors.
- Different Process for Editing
- Rewriting
- Substantive Editing
- Who is the audience?
- What is the document’s objective?
- Why is the document being written?
- Line Editing
- Copyediting
- Word-Level Editing (also called Proofreading)
- Line Editing
- Sentence Fragments
- Run-On Sentences
- Use Transition Words to Fix Fragments and Run-Ons
- Smothered Verbs Bore Your Reader
- Copyediting
- Punctuation Tips: Quotes
- Punctuation Tips: Commas
- Traditional Copy Editing Marks
- Manage Your Time and Space
- Your Time
- Your Space
- Know Common Errors
- Exercises to Increase Speed and Accuracy
- Character Accuracy 1
- Character Accuracy 2
- Character Accuracy 3
- Spelling, Punctuation, Capitalization, and Usage Exercise
- Proofing a Sample Letter
- Proofing an Email

Quinn McDonald’s expertise and her warm sense of humor make for a truly pleasurable classroom experience. Her approach to writing and grammar helps participants develop the skills necessary for powerful, effective communication on the job. Many report a new awareness of and appreciation for the power of words in writing and presentations.
Bring This Training To Your Site!
Any AGTS class can be customized and brought on-site to your organization.
For more information on this option call 480-967-7544, x3 (800-970-1270, x3 outside the Phoenix Metro area) or email our Custom Training Specialist.