The centre of excellence
for publishing training

This ten unit course will help you to acquire the skills you need to write copy for just about any purpose. Although there is a bias towards copywriting in publishing, each unit focuses on a different area so that, by the end of the course, you should be able to turn your hand to almost anything.

Throughout, the materials examine the aim of the promotion piece, the audience to be addressed, the marketplace and the nature of the product itself. You will also learn about the impact of design and production issues on copywriters.

You will be guided through real-life examples and asked to improve on existing copy. Each module concludes with a written assignment in which you will prepare a piece of copy from information supplied. Your tutor will mark your work and return it with detailed comments and advice for you to apply as you work through the next module.

You will need access to a computer or typewriter in order to complete the assignments. A good dictionary and thesaurus are also recommended.

On successful completion of the course, you will receive a certificate, indicating the level of pass you have achieved (pass, merit or distinction).

You will also be eligible to enter your details on the Publishing Training Centre's Freelance Directory.

Programme summary

• Introduction
• Crib sheets for copywriters
• Research – knowing the product and the market before you start to write
• Writing basic information
• Design, layout and production
• Writing for the trade
• Advertisements
• Product pack copy and book blurbs
• Writing for the media (including press releases and feature material)
• Direct marketing material
• Writing for spoken delivery
• Conclusion – where do you go from here?

Effective Copywriting - full programme ...