Do you recognize sentences that are clumsy, unclear or stilted, but aren’t sure what makes them so?
Learn how to apply the fundamental rules of writing to produce text that is not only correct, but also coherent, emphatic and elegant. Through written assignments and in-class or online discussions, practise revising text by analyzing and diagnosing common problems. Topics include clarity in complexity, balance and symmetry, and nuances of sentence length and rhythm.
You’ll receive feedback on the assignments you submit, and are encouraged to contribute to in-class or online exercises. This course is ideal for freelance writers, copywriters and journalists, and for anyone who writes regularly for work or for school.
Course Overview:
Week 1: Overview of Style Guidelines
Week 2: Developing your Style
Week 3: Creating a Smooth Flow of Ideas
Week 4: Achieving Concision
Week 5: Shaping and Controlling Your Prose
Week 6: Achieving Simplicity, Clarity and Complexity
Do you need a grammar refresher before refining your writing style? Consider enrolling in Writing Well: Grammar.
Course Format
This course is offered 100% online.
About Online Learning
Our professional writing courses are purpose-built for online learning using UBC instructional design resources and tools.
Online courses are hosted on the intuitive learning management platform Canvas. Every week, your instructor releases a new module or lesson. Each lesson might include materials such as class notes, readings, links to articles, videos and practice exercises. You may also be asked to post on discussion boards and submit assignments.
Your instructor is there to provide you feedback on your work, and guide online forum discussions. Some may hold virtual office hours. You can also communicate with your instructor through Canvas.
Expect to spend two to three hours per week on your course – you do get out what you put in! You can log in anytime day or night. Some courses, however, might include exercises and assignments with deadlines. Materials will be available for two weeks after the course ends, after which time you will no longer be able to access the course.
We will send you instructions on accessing Canvas before your first class.