Proofreader Training Programs and Courses

Proofreader training is provided through community colleges and continuing education departments. Most programs award certificates. Continue reading to find out what you'd study in a proofreading program, and explore specialization options in the field, such as proofreading Braille. Get info about online training options for proofreaders.

<h3 id="section---WhatYouNeedToKnow">What You Need to Know</h3> <p>Proofreading is an exacting skill that requires strong proficiency in English writing, grammar and punctuation. There are online programs in proofreading as well as hybrid programs that incorporate both an online component and a classroom component. These programs teach you to spot common writing errors and educate you on the latest industry standards in writing. </p> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><td><b>Programs</b></td><td>Programs are available at community colleges, continuing education facilities and online</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Courses</b></td><td> Copyediting fundamentals, editorial roles, grammar for editors, business writing, communication, any other courses relevant to specialization</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Certificates</b></td><td>Certificates can be awarded in proofreading, copy editing or another related area</td></tr> </table><h3 id="section---WhereCanIFindProofreaderTrainingPrograms">Where Can I Find Proofreader Training Programs?</h3> <p>A poorly written document can harm the credibility and reputation of an organization, especially in the modern, Internet-driven world. As a proofreader, you can be a valuable asset to any company or organization. Proofreading training programs are taught at community colleges and continuing education facilities, as well as online. These training programs generally culminate in a certificate of achievement. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatWillILearnInAProofreadingTrainingProgram">What Will I Learn in a Proofreading Training Program?</h3> <p>Proofreader training programs examine the rules of grammar, punctuation and sentence structure, and they expose you to various proofreading techniques. You'll explore concepts related to business writing, effective communication techniques and editing. Programs typically cover industry-standard proofreading notation as well as addressing any recent changes made to the standards of writing and style. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatCoursesCanITakeInACertificateProgram">What Courses Can I Take in a Certificate Program?</h3> <p>A certificate program in copy editing or general editing teaches you how to spot common errors in grammar, spelling and punctuation. You can learn about obscure errors that aren't commonly made, as well as exploring ways to fix them. In a court reporting proofreading training program, you can learn about note reading, legal terminology, keyboarding, legal principles and how to use transcript-formatting <a href="https://learn.org/articles/Graduate_Degrees_in_Computer_Information_Systems_Program_FAQs.html">computer systems</a>. </p> <p>Certificate program training in editing and proofreading will give you a chance to hone your own writing aptitudes and strengths. You can learn about the various resources available to writers in this type of program. A Copyediting Certificate may be available in addition to a Certificate in Editing. Courses may cover these topics: </p> <ul><li>Basic manuscript editing </li><li>Intermediate manuscript editing </li><li>Advanced manuscript editing </li><li>Editing electronically </li><li>Grammar essentials </li><li>Copyright for publishing professionals </li></ul><h3 id="section---WhatAboutIndividualCourses">What About Individual Courses?</h3> <p>There are a variety of individual courses that are available for proofreaders, especially in specialized areas of study. A Braille proofreading course teaches you how to find and correct errors in Braille text. You will learn how to prepare accurate Braille reports for transcribers. Continuing education courses might also be an option, such as copyediting and proofreading books. </p> <h3 id="section---CanITakeTrainingProgramsOnline">Can I Take Training Programs Online?</h3> <p>Schools offer proofreading courses online that can be completed in a variety of ways. Some courses can be completed entirely online, while others are delivered in a hybrid format, blending online and on-campus study. Certificate programs and continuing education courses may be offered fully online.</p>