online proofreading courses uk

Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading

Develop the skills and knowledge you need to work as an editor or proofreader, language, publishing and communication standards and practices change. we help you keep your skills, knowledge and working practices up to date., 'i have done all of the proofreading suite, as well as a smattering of other courses, and each annual conference since 2017. i feel very skilled because the training is professional, deep and highly regarded. in particular, the proofreading mentoring was much more intense than i expected, but i was supported and reassured throughout.'.

ANNIE DEAKINS, UK

4 Best Online Proofreading Courses in 2024 (Pros & Cons)

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If you’re looking for the best online proofreading courses, I can help you. As a trained proofreader, I conducted comprehensive research before deciding which class to take. I chose the Proofread Anywhere course, but all the classes in this article will adequately prepare you to become a proofreader .

The best proofreading courses are General Proofreading: Theory and Practice™ by Proofread Anywhere, Becoming a Proofreader by Knowadays , Essential Proofreading: Editorial Skills One by The Publishing Training Centre (PTC), and a series of classes by the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP).

Let’s see what each of these classes offers so you can decide if one of them is right for you.

Note : If you want to become a proofreader, I advise against taking a class that costs considerably less than the ones mentioned in this article.

A Brief Look at Which Class Makes the Most Sense for You

Table of Contents

A Quick Comparison of the Classes

Let’s get an overview of the primary differences between these courses.

Summary of the Main Differences

*You earn a certificate from Proofread Anywhere if you purchase the Ignite Plus version of the course and score 90% or above on the final exam.

A Cost Comparison

*You’ll get a $100 scholarship to apply to either version of the course if you watch Proofread Anywhere’s free workshop.

Now that we’ve gotten an overview, let’s dive into the details.

The courses are taught in either US or UK English. These dialects have differences in grammar, punctuation, spelling, and vocabulary.

The variations aren’t too difficult to learn, but realize you’ll need to do some self-study to master them.

The Proofread Anywhere and Knowadays programs provide some content to help you learn how these dialects vary, but they don’t cover all the details.

All the courses below are suitable for beginners except the second and third classes in the CIEP series.

Note : I published a piece about what to look for in an online class if you need guidance on this topic.

The Four Best Online Proofreading Courses

1) general proofreading: theory and practice™ by proofread anywhere.

Proofread Anywhere is a business that offers online training for proofreaders.

I chose Proofread Anywhere for my training and would pick it again. I believe this program offers the best value for the money.

Pros, Cons, and Key Takeaway of the Proofread Anywhere Class

• only course that provides in-depth training for building a business and marketing yourself
• teaches you how to navigate one of the most commonly used style guides (CMOS)
• training in grammar, punctuation, spelling, etc., and guidance for integrating AI into your proofreading work
• lifetime access to course materials and a supportive Facebook group
• company not as well-established in the publishing industry (compared to the CIEP & PTC)
• limited access to support from staff (must pay extra for tutoring)
• doesn’t teach you how to proofread typeset documents

Key Takeaway for “The Most Well-Rounded Program”

Take this class if you want to learn how to build an online business and market yourself, want lifetime access to a peer support group, and would like to learn how to proofread using a specific style guide.

Note : This is the only course of the four that doesn’t teach you how to proofread typeset documents. However, you’ll probably only need this knowledge if you work for a publishing company.

Details of General Proofreading: Theory and Practice™

Who It’s For : This class is especially well-suited to people who want to learn how to proofread books (nonfiction and fiction) since it teaches you how to use The Chicago Manual of Style (CMOS), the go-to guide for the book publishing industry in the United States.

Cost : General Proofreading: Theory and Practice™ (Ignite): $597 OR General Proofreading: Theory and Practice™ (Ignite Plus): $697

The Ignite Plus course includes everything in the Ignite course, including a final exam (graded by hand). If you pass the exam with a score of 90% or higher, you will receive the following:

• a certificate of completion
• one year of free access to the new Hire a Proofreader Directory where you can add your profile and look for work on the job dashboard
• membership in a Facebook marketing mastermind group designed for general proofreading students with verified skills   

Trustpilot Rating : 4.6/5.0 from over 175 reviews

Prerequisite s : None. However, they recommend you have a good eye for detail.

Required Texts : The recommended texts are the 17 th Edition of The Chicago Manual of Style  (CMOS) and Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary (11 th Edition) . 

Duration : Self-paced (takes a minimum of one month to complete). They’ve added lots of new content, so it will likely take up to a few months to finish the class if you can’t spend substantial time studying each day.

Time to Access Course : Lifetime (includes any updates). You also have lifetime access to a Facebook support group.

Grade Given : Yes, if you purchase the Ignite Plus version of the course

Certificate of Completion : Yes, if you buy the Ignite Plus version of the program and pass the final exam with a score of 90% or higher.

The certificate acknowledges that you passed the final exam with a grade of 90% or above. 

Here’s mine so you can see what it looks like:

Course Creator : Caitlin Pyle; she has extensive experience in general and transcript proofreading

Instructor Feedback : Yes. Currently, the program has a team member who is quite active in the private Facebook support group. You can alo search the group discussions to find answers to almost any question you would have.

If you need more individualized attention, you can purchase tutoring sessions. They cost $50 per 30-minute session.

Course Taught in US or UK English : US English

Course Content : 14 modules; reading material, worksheets, quizzes, videos, and 40+ documents to proofread

Main Topics :

• Grammar, punctuation, spelling, and word use
• Proofreading methods (e.g., working in MS Word, Google Docs)
• Working with style guides
• Proofreading academic, creative, and business writing
• Building a business and finding clients
• Using AI tools to increase efficiency

Additional Notes : This class comes with the following resource guides:

• Look Better in Writing™ Handbook of Commonly Misused (and Abused!) Words
• The Ultimate Freelancer Tax Guide
• The Mindset Mastery Guide
• 5 Mindset Shifts for Goal-Crushing Confidence

A Money Mindset Transformation workshop (and workbook) is also included.

If you’d like more info about this course and creating a profitable freelance proofreading business, you can sign up for this free 76-minute workshop .

You’ll receive a $100 scholarship for either version of the course, but you have to use it within one hour of completing the workshop.

If you’d like to learn more, I wrote an in-depth article about why Proofread Anywhere is well worth the money .

2) Becoming a Proofreader by Knowadays

Knowadays (formerly Proofreading Academy) provides online classes for students who’d like to start a new side hustle or career.

Pros, Cons, and Key Takeaway of the Knowadays Class

• only program that offers guaranteed work (only in conjunction with their editing course) to those who qualify
• training in grammar, punctuation, spelling, etc.
• supportive tutors to answer course-related questions and lifetime access to class materials
• teaches you how to proofread typeset documents
• minimal training on how to set up a business and market yourself
• competition for jobs at Proofed will eventually increase as more people qualify for the guaranteed work offer

Key Takeaway for “The Program with the Work Guarantee”

Take this class if you want to be eligible for a work guarantee (only in conjunction with Knowadays’ editing course), want one-on-one support from tutors, and would like to learn how to proofread typeset documents.

Details of Becoming a Proofreader

Who It’s For : This class is particularly well-suited to those who want to learn how to proofread academic texts since it teaches a variety of academic referencing styles, including Harvard, APA, MLA, Chicago, and Turabian.

Cost : $499

Trustpilot Rating : 4.8/5.0 from over 450 reviews

Prerequisite s : None

Required Text s : None listed. But you need Microsoft Word (2016 or later) to work through the course. 

Duration : Self-paced; takes roughly 40 hours to finish

Time to Access Course : Lifetime (includes any updates)

Grade Given : Yes, you’ll receive a grade for the final assignment.

Certificate of Completion : Yes, all students receive a CPD-accredited certificate at the end of the class. CPD stands for Continuing Professional Development .

Course Creators : A team of proofreading and editing experts from Proofed —a reputable online proofreading and editing company

Instructor Feedback : You can email tutors with questions throughout the class and schedule a tutor support call for free if something is still unclear. Tutors also provide comprehensive feedback on the final assignment.

Course Taught in US or UK English : US English (but a version in UK English is available upon request)

Course Content : 13 modules; reading material, quizzes, videos, and assignments (including real-life example jobs)

• Grammar, punctuation, spelling, word use
• Working with style guides
• Academic referencing and citations
• Finding work

Additional Notes : They offer a work guarantee with their sister company, Proofed. To qualify for guaranteed work, you need to take the Becoming a Proofreader and Becoming an Editor course (bundle deal available for 15% off) and score 80% or higher on the final exam in each class. You begin work on a trial basis. If the trial goes well, you can take on longer and more complex documents.

If you’d like to go to the Becoming a Proofreader free trial or learn more about the Proofreader and Editor Course Bundle, you can do so here . You’ll need to click “Learn More” under “Becoming a Proofreader” to access the free lessons.

I wrote a comprehensive post about Knowadays if you’d like more info. This article discusses the Becoming an Editor course and the Proofreader and Editor Course Bundle.

3) Essential Proofreading: Editorial Skills One by The Publishing Training Centre

The Publishing Training Centre (PTC) is a network of professionals who provide courses for the publishing industry and broader business world.

Pros, Cons, and Key Takeaway of the PTC Class

• training from a very well-established and reputable company
• both course creators have worked in the industry for 35+ years
• a personal tutor to support you throughout the program
• free training manual to help you start a successful career
• no training in grammar, punctuation, spelling, etc.
• course teaches how to mark up on paper with British Standards Institution symbols (a skill you may never use)
• basic user interface

Key Takeaway for “The Program with the Personal Tutor”

Take this class if you aspire to work at a publishing company, want the guidance of a personal tutor throughout the course, and want training from a well-known name in the publishing industry.

Details of Essential Proofreading: Editorial Skills One

Who It’s For : This course is ideal for people wanting to work for a publisher.

Cost : £345

Trustpilot Rating : N/A

Prerequisite s : None. However, they strongly recommend taking their Essential Grammar class (available for £35 with your purchase of the Essential Proofreading course). They also recommend that you are detail-oriented and can concentrate at length. You should have a firm grasp of conversational English and grammar, punctuation, and spelling. Finally, they suggest you have broad general knowledge and are eager to learn.

Required Tex t s : None listed. But you need to have Microsoft Word (2010 or later) and Adobe Reader XI or DC (free version) to complete the training.

Duration : Self-paced; takes at least 50 hours to finish

Time to Access Course : 12 months; you can study for another 12 months if you pay a re-registration fee of £75

Grade Given : Yes, please see the next bullet point.

Certificate of Completion : Yes, you receive a certificate of completion from The Publications Qualification Board . The certificate indicates a grade of “pass,” “merit,” or “distinction.”

Course Creators : Gillian Clarke—a founder member and honorary member of the Society for Editors and Proofreaders (SfEP), now the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP); Margaret Aherne —a founder member of the SfEP  

Instructor Feedback : Each student is assigned a tutor who offers support throughout the class and up to three months after completion. The tutor will grade and provide feedback on four assignments. 

Course Taught in US or UK English : UK English

Course Content : 6 units; reading material, exercises, and assignments (including real-life example jobs)

• Proofreading techniques
• Best practices and using good judgment
• Proofreading vs. proof-editing
• Working on PDFs
• Working for publishers
• The BSI symbols

Additional Notes : Upon enrollment in Essential Proofreading, you can take two of the following e-learning modules for free:

• Proofreading PDFs: A Complete Guide for Editors
• A Copy-Editor’s Guide to Working with Authors
• Introduction to Marketing
• Introduction to Publishing 

After completing the Essential Proofreading course, they’ll send you a free training manual (Successful Editorial Freelancing) to help you plan and progress in your new career.

Finally, you’ll be listed in The Publishing Training Centre’s Freelance Finder , where publishers can find highly qualified proofreaders.

You can learn more about the PTC course here .

4) A Series of Courses by The Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading

The Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP) is an organization that offers classes for the publishing industry.

They recommend a series of three classes:

            1) Proofreading 1: Introduction (I’ll call it P1.)

This course is not enough training to start working as a proofreader.

            2) Proofreading 2: Headway (I’ll call it P2.)

This class provides enough training to start working on short, uncomplicated documents.

            3) Proofreading 3: Progress (I’ll call it P3.)

This course gives you the skills to work on a full range of documents.  

Pros, Cons, and Key Takeaway of the CIEP Classes

• training from a highly prestigious editorial organization
• program created by a long-standing authority in the publishing industry
• a very comprehensive training program (if you take all three classes in the series)
• P1 course can be taken alone to see if proofreading is a good fit for you; P2 and P3 classes are suitable for proofreaders who already have experience and meet the prerequisites
• quite expensive and no training in grammar, punctuation, spelling, etc.
• courses teach you how to mark up on paper with British Standards Institution symbols (a skill you may never use)
• no training on how to set up a business and market yourself

Key Takeaway for “The Most Prestigious Program”

Take these classes if you aspire to work at a publishing company, want training from a prestigious name in the publishing industry, and are willing to pay a high price.

Details of the CIEP Series

Who It’s For :

These classes are ideal for those wanting to work for a publisher.

Let’s see what proofreading level is needed for each course.

P1: Beginners who are thinking about becoming proofreaders

P2: Those with some proofreading knowledge and experience who want to know more (they strongly recommend taking P1 first)

P3: Those who have a solid foundation in proofreading and are ready to advance to the next level (they highly recommend taking P1 and P2 first); also for proofreaders coming back to the profession after a break

P1: £190 / CIEP Members: £115

The P1 class is now available in a virtual learning format. It consists of four live webinar sessions (one per week) that last 2.5 hours at most. Nonmembers pay £335, while CIEP members pay a discounted rate.

P2: £340 / CIEP Members: £235

P3: £340 / CIEP Members: £235

Prerequisite s :

P1: Good grasp of English grammar, a wide range of general knowledge, familiarity with MS Word and Adobe Acrobat Reader DC                            

P2: Prerequisites for P1 and an understanding of proofreading basics as taught in P1

P3: Prerequisites for P1 and an understanding of proofreading basics as taught in P1 and P2

Required Tex t s : None listed

Duration : Self-paced; the three classes combined take at least 50 hours to complete

Time to Access Course : six months per course

Grade Given :

P2: Yes, please see the next bullet point.

P3: Yes, please see the next bullet point.

Certificate of Completion :

P2: Yes, you’ll receive a certificate of completion if you complete (but do not pass) the class. If you pass it, you’ll receive a certificate showing you have passed either with “merit” or “distinction.” Your performance on the final assignment determines the degree to which you pass.

P3: Yes, in the same manner as in the P2 course.

Course Creator : The CIEP 

Instructor Feedback : A tutor is available for one hour of support per course. The tutor will answer questions you have throughout the training. You can purchase additional tutoring if needed.

P1: Tutor does not grade any of your work

P2: Tutor grades and provides feedback on three assignments (the third assignment is the final assignment)

P3: Tutor grades and offers input on three assignments as well as the final assignment

Course Content :

P1: 6 units; reading material, exercises, and assignments

P2: 6 units; reading material, exercises, and assignments (including real-life example jobs)

P3: 8 units; reading material, exercises, and assignments (including real-life example jobs)

• Types of mistakes to correct
• Marking errors using BSI symbols, PDF markup tools, and Word’s Track Changes
• Applying some common editorial conventions in the UK
• Using good judgment with how much to change
• Communicating clearly with clients about the scope of work
• Understanding where proofreading fits into the publishing process
• Common editorial conventions and house style
• Dealing with layout issues
• Handling illustrations, tables, notes, and references
• Proofreading a variety of documents
• Strategies for increasingly difficult texts
• Tackling more complex documents
• Using BSI symbols and PDF Comment tools
• Managing layout issues (including overmatter)
• Handling documents with illustrations, tables, notes, and references
• What to do when more than proofreading is needed
• Types of documents your skills are best suited to

Additional Notes : None

You can check out the CIEP class series here .

An Honorable Mention

The Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA) is a well-known organization in the United States that deserves mention.

The Editorial Freelancers Association

The EFA offers online proofreading courses throughout the year. Past proofreading programs they’ve provided include Proofreading: The Basics, Proofreading 101, and Proofreading 201.

These courses require advance registration and have limited space. Furthermore, they only offer specific classes at certain times during the year.

If you want comprehensive training, you’ll probably need to take more than one of these classes; however, getting them to line up with each other will likely be challenging.

You can visit the EFA website to see which courses they currently offer.

Students who take these courses do not receive a certificate. However, the EFA states that students can contact an individual instructor who can verify the student’s participation in a class by writing a letter.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you become a certified proofreader.

Currently, the only option to get a professional certification in proofreading is to pass the proofreading exam offered by  Editors Canada , an editorial association based in Toronto, Ontario. However, taking the exam costs $550 for nonmembers.

Furthermore, they recommend that people taking the exam have at least five years of full-time experience working as a proofreader since the exam tests for “excellence (rather than proficiency).”

Becoming a certified proofreader is not necessary to land proofreading jobs. However, if you’d like to know more about this topic, I penned a post about the process of becoming a certified proofreader .

Are proofreading courses worth it?

A proofreading course is worth the investment in time and money if you want to become a professional proofreader. Lots of competition exists in the proofreading industry, so completing a program is one way to help you stand out.

A course will also give you confidence in your abilities and show potential clients you have the skills needed to do the job well. Earning clients’ trust can be more challenging if you don’t have experience, so a class can help boost your trustworthiness from the get-go.

How long does it take to complete a proofreading course?

Generally, it takes at least 50 hours to complete a comprehensive proofreading course that will prepare you to be a proofreader. To finish a class in one month, you’d need to study for about one hour and 45 minutes daily (including weekends). Simple proofreading courses on Skillshare and Udemy typically take 2–4 hours to finish.

How much can a beginner proofreader make?

A beginner proofreader can make roughly $12–$18 per hour. But this depends on whether you work for yourself or someone else, the genre of the texts you take on, and how fast you can proofread.

For example, you’ll earn more proofreading theses you receive via your own clients than by tidying up simple newsletters from customers on Upwork.

As you get more experience and testimonials, you can charge more money. What does “more money” look like? Here are a couple of useful statistics:

• ZipRecruiter  (August 2024) reports that the average yearly pay for a freelance proofreader in the US is $57,520, which is $28.00 per hour.
• According to the  US Bureau of Labor Statistics  (May 2023), proofreaders are paid an average of $51,100 annually, which translates to $24.57 per hour.

What qualifications do proofreaders need?

Generally, you don’t need qualifications (e.g., degree, certification) to be a proofreader. But experience and/or a degree is a requirement for some jobs. What proofreaders do need is the skill set to do the job well.

You can learn these skills by taking a thorough proofreading class, like the ones mentioned in this article. I penned a post about proofreader qualifications if you’d like more info.  

A Word of Caution about Low-Cost Proofreading Classes

As mentioned, I don’t recommend low-cost courses for aspiring proofreaders.

As someone who has completed the Proofread Anywhere program and works in the field, I don’t think a course costing around $100 could possibly provide you with enough training to compete with well-trained proofreaders.

I would encourage you to find successful proofreaders in the industry and ask them for their opinions! I think you’ll find that adequate training is necessary to succeed in this field.

I would only recommend low-cost proofreading classes (such as those found on platforms like Udemy and Skillshare) for those interested in exploring proofreading as a potential job, people wishing to learn the basics of proofreading, and experienced proofreaders wanting to brush up on their skills.

Considering how much proofreaders earn , it’s illogical to think you could make that kind of money after taking an inexpensive class that only takes a few hours to complete.

Also, having a strong command of the English language isn’t the only thing you need to become a successful proofreader. You need to know how to navigate at least one major style guide (e.g., The Chicago Manual of Style ) and how to use software like MS Word and Google Docs to mark up your clients’ texts.

The most significant benefit you’ll receive from a proofreading program is the feedback after proofreading a wide array of real-life example documents.

Now, onto the research I did to write this article.

My Research Process to Find the Best Courses

To create this list, I looked into seventeen editorial organizations across four countries—the US, the UK, Canada, and Australia.

I also investigated several other companies that offer proofreading classes.

The businesses varied widely in reputation and the depth of training they provided. 

All the organizations listed in this article are reputable names in the publishing industry.

Proofread Anywhere and Knowadays are much newer than the other two organizations, but they’ve seen impressive growth over the past several years.

Proofread Anywhere’s general proofreading class was launched in April 2017, and the Knowadays class debuted in August 2017.

I hope this article has helped you learn everything you wanted to know about the best proofreading courses.

I wish you good luck pursuing your goals, whatever those may be!

Best wishes to you! 

“What you get by achieving your goals is not as important as what you become by achieving your goals.” – Henry David Thoreau

Lindsay Babcock

Lindsay is the creator of Om Proofreading. She has a BA in psychology and earned a certificate in proofreading by passing the final exam in Proofread Anywhere’s general proofreading course. She shares what she’s learning in the field and through research to inform and inspire her readers.

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Last updated on Jul 02, 2024

The 9 Best Proofreading Courses for Editors and Writers Online

About the author.

Reedsy's editorial team is a diverse group of industry experts devoted to helping authors write and publish beautiful books.

About Linnea Gradin

The editor-in-chief of the Reedsy Freelancer blog, Linnea is a writer and marketer with a degree from the University of Cambridge. Her focus is to provide aspiring editors and book designers with the resources to further their careers.

About Isabella Peralta

A writer and editor, Isabella coordinates "Prompts," Reedsy's weekly short story competition. Originally from the Philippines, she is a graduate of the University of Cambridge.

Are you looking to assume the mantle of those unsung heroes of the publishing world that have come before you and become an eagle-eyed proofreader? Or do you see proofreading as the first step in your editing career? Whatever your reasons, it’s never a bad idea to develop your skill set further by taking a proofreading course. 

In this post, we’ve assembled a list of online courses that’ll show you how to become a proofreader. For quick reference, here’s a breakdown of the courses we’ll be looking at:

Knowing how to proofread is an important skill for almost everyone in today’s media-saturated world, but if you want to become a professional proofreader or editor (or even a writer), learning how to perform a professional final check on a piece of text to ensure there are no errors could make all the difference to your career.

From in-depth programs to short overview classes available at various price points, there’s bound to be something in this post that’s suited to your needs. 

But before we take a closer look at what these courses offer and who they might benefit, let’s briefly talk about proofreading certificates and whether you need one to get hired.

Can I become a proofreader without a certification?

While you don’t necessarily need a well-known industry qualification to become a proofreader, adding at least one widely recognized proofreading certification to your CV can definitely give you a leg up, especially since the demand for editing services is continuously on the rise.

With more and more people looking to become proofreaders — not to mention AI proofreading software becoming more advanced — a strong CV and unmatchable expertise will help you stand out among your competitors, so if you have time and money to spare, why not invest in yourself and your future?

Professional proofreading

Being a professional freelancer (as most proofreaders are) involves more than just the mastery of proofreading skills — it also means understanding and adapting to the style used by each client, knowing how to market yourself, and managing your finances. Luckily, some courses cover these topics in addition to the hard skills of the trade, taught by experienced proofreaders themselves.

If you’re serious about becoming a professional proofreader, be sure to look out for courses that offer certificates widely acknowledged in the industry. That way, you can verify your own expertise once you’ve “graduated” and set yourself up for a successful proofreading career.

To get more freelance tips and advice from Reedsy professionals, follow us on LinkedIn .

Becoming a Proofreader (Knowadays) 

🎯 Perfect for: Aspiring professionals looking for immersion

💰 Cost: $499. Sign up here .

⏰ Average time commitment: 2 to 4 weeks

While that might seem too basic to many aspiring professionals out there, remember that keeping up to date with the latest features and software could be crucial to your success and efficiency as a freelance proofreader. And in addition to its 78 lessons – which you can complete in 2 to 4 weeks – the course also offers a CPD-accredited certificate upon completion and on-demand tutor support. So if you’re willing to invest in your career, this is a serious contender.

Essential Proofreading: Editorial Skills One (The Publishing Training Centre) 

🎯 Perfect for: Aspiring proofreaders looking for immersion

💰 Cost: £395 (around $500, possible to pay in installments). Sign up here .

⏰ Average time commitment: 50 hours

Since The Publishing Training Centre’s (PTC) intensive proofreading course is intended as a training program for professionals, it is assumed that students already have a good grasp of the English language, grammar and spelling included.

With those basics already locked down, this 50-hour self-paced course focuses instead on navigating the collaborative and technical elements of a proofreading job; explaining standard practices in the publishing business; and providing guidance on both paper and screen markups. It notably offers 30 self-check exercises, four long module assignments, support from a personal tutor, and a Publishing Qualifications Board completion certificate, which PTC claims to be “the most widely recognised industry qualification.”

While PTC is based in the UK, anyone from around the world who’s seriously interested in becoming a proofreader can join this course as the knowledge it offers can be applied almost anywhere where (British) English is the working language.

Proofreading and Copyediting with The Chicago Manual of Style (Editorial Freelancers Association) 

💰 Cost: $190. Sign up here .

⏰ Average time commitment: Self-paced, around 3 to 6 months

If you want to be well-versed in what’s considered the standard for U.S.-style book publishing, look no further! This course from The Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA) will show you all there is to know about not just proofreading, but also copyediting with The Chicago Manual of Style (CMOS) as a foundation.

If you’ve got “an excellent grasp of college-level grammar,” as EFA states, then this course’s focus on style, punctuation, and citation, among other things, could help you go beyond learning the fundamentals of CMOS’s notes-and-bibliography system — you’ll also learn about “the practicalities of correcting a typical author manuscript,” which will definitely help boost your CV!

The course consists of 16 lessons, and each lesson has a 10-point quiz at the end to test your knowledge. Since the course is self-paced, how long it will take to complete will depend on each student, though a representative tells us that 6 months is usually more than enough time, even with only occasional study. Students are notably given a full year to access the course site and download materials from it for later review.

High-level proofreading on a budget

If you’re on a tight budget but still want something in-depth, consider taking one of the courses below. They provide a comprehensive understanding of proofreading — without breaking the bank. 

Proofreading Power Basics (Udemy) 

🎯 Perfect for: Aspiring professionals on a budget

💰 Cost: $85.99*. Sign up here .

*Prices fluctuate according to region. We’ve also seen frequent promotions with prices as low as $11.99, so keep an eye out for potential sales!

⏰ Average time commitment: 1.5 hours

Understanding proofreading marks, choosing your approach to a document, knowing how to address capitalization and numeration — these are just some of the things you can expect from Proofreading Power Basics.

As with many of the more advanced professional classes out there, make sure you come with a world-class understanding of grammar since there’s no talk of punctuation or homonyms here — in fact, the course’s creator states that to pass with flying colors, you “must at least have intermediate grammar skills.”

For learners on a budget who want to hone their professional skills and put them into practice right away, this just might be the class for you — and given Udemy’s frequent price drops, we think it’d definitely be more worth the wait to try and catch a sale. However, note that unlike a few other online classes in this post, you will not receive a recognized industry qualification upon completion.

Proofreading and Copyediting 101 (Universal Class)

💰 Cost: $95 with no certificate, $120 with a certificate. Sign up here .

⏰ Average time commitment: 11 hours

Proofreading and copyediting are both covered, giving you a more diverse range of skills and more bang for your buck. PIus, if you’d like to add proof of formal training to your CV, you can pay just $25 more to obtain a CEU (Continuing Education Unit) certificate. Universal Class states that CEUs “represent a crucial benchmark in professional and personal development” and serve as “the industry measurement of non-credit education.”

Kickstart Your Freelance Editor & Proofreader Career on Upwork (Udemy)

🎯 Perfect for: Those looking to get started with freelancing

💰 Cost: $94.99*. Sign up here .

⏰ Average time commitment: 2 hours

In 25 bite-sized lessons, this class’s instructor shares his insights into becoming a freelance editor and proofreader on Upwork. Though it won’t teach you the hard skills of proofreading, consider taking this course if you want answers to plenty of complex questions and issues related to being a freelancer — from finding proofreading jobs to understanding personal finance.

In addition to obtaining a certificate of completion, you’ll also learn how to: write a strong bid proposal cover letter; fast-track your career trajectory; and improve your bidding chances, thereby winning contracts and receiving good reviews.

The instructor does touch on editing philosophies and which editing tools to master, but that should be considered additional information to the golden nuggets of wisdom you’ll hear about managing your independent work.

Similar to the previously listed Udemy course we mentioned, we think this one is worth it if you can catch a sale, but otherwise, go for one of the cheaper courses below or invest in the Knowadays or PTC course.

Top tip: Don't stop at creating a strong profile — also demonstrate your professionalism with a well-designed freelance proposal.

Beginner proofreaders, writers, and students

If you’re a student who’s looking to secure those A*s or a freelance writer who just needs to make sure all your submissions are flawless, you may wish to consider the courses below. 

While they don’t go into specific details like collaborating on a digital document or managing the nitty-gritty of formatting a manuscript, they do cover basic grammar mistakes and most major types of editing — enough to give you both a good introduction and the confidence to revise an array of texts . Plus, you can potentially save quite a bit of money by doing an initial proofread yourself before hiring a professional freelancer to check your work.

Proofreading Basics Certificate Course (New Skills Academy)  

🎯 Perfect for: Beginner proofreaders, writers, and students

💰 Cost: $25. Sign up here .

⏰ Average time commitment: 1 hour

If you need help at any point while taking this class, you can take advantage of the 24/7 student support that it offers. Additionally, you’ll be given access to an exclusive New Skills Academy study group and receive a certificate upon completion of the course.

How to Find & Correct Writing Errors (Udemy) 

💰 Cost: $64.99*. Sign up here .

*Prices fluctuate according to region. We’ve also seen frequent promotions with prices as low as $11.99, so keep an eye out for that!

This Udemy class includes 19 lectures that you can watch in your own time, covering editing techniques and technical guidance regarding styles, spelling, and document formatting. You’ll receive an hour’s worth of video content that’ll equip you with the skills needed to proofread and spot mistakes in your own work without a hitch.

The instructor notably has experience working for various newspapers and magazines. He’s also taught at the university level and created content for several popular online editing classes in addition to this Udemy course.

Grammar Fundamentals (Editorial Freelancers Association)

Since this course is self-paced, how long it will take to complete will depend on each student, though a representative tells us that 6 months is usually more than enough time, even with only occasional study.

In addition to in-depth lessons, handouts, and assessments, the course also offers real-time Q&A sessions via Zoom with the instructor. Students are notably given a full year to access the course site and download materials from it for later review.

Reedsy recommends

While we recommend all of the courses above for different reasons, it’s important to choose the course that’s right for you.

If you’re serious about becoming a professional proofreader, Universal Class’s “Proofreading and Copyediting 101” offers relatively good bang for your buck at $95 for the course itself and $120 if you want the CEU certificate to strengthen your CV. Given the class’s end-of-lessons tests and 11 hours of content, it will require you to consistently put in time and effort, helping you hone your skills as a proofreader. You’ll also get the added bonus of copy editing training. 

However, the certificate that you’ll gain from Universal Class is not as widely recognized in the industry, nor does it compare to the much more extensive and immersive training that you’ll get from courses such as Knowaday’s “Becoming a Proofreader” and PTC’s “Essential Proofreading.” And while these come at a much steeper price, these courses are more likely to be a one-time investment, as they are better equipped to turn you into a full-fledged proofreader in one go — without having to pay for additional courses and training — which may be  more worth your while if proofreading is something you see yourself doing long-term.

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On the other hand, if you’re someone who’s just looking to dip their toes into what proofreading entails, there’s no reason to pay the big bucks yet. Instead, consider taking a course like New Skills Academy’s “Proofreading Basics Certificate Course,” which is perfect for those with a tight schedule and budget who still want to become more knowledgeable about not just common mistakes, but also software with the purpose of proofreading.

In the end, any one of the nine courses that we’ve detailed in this post will leave you with a better understanding of proofreading, regardless of your level of commitment, career goals, and budget. We hope that this post will help you make an informed choice about which one is right for you, and that you find the course that will bring you one step closer to being a successful proofreader.

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Essential Proofreading: Editorial Skills One

The only self-study course that takes you from beginner to PQB-qualified proofreader in one step. Including the most recent on-screen proofreading techniques, it's ideal for career-changers or those needing formal proofreading skills.

STUDY TIME: at least 50 hours and up to 12 months to complete

“My objective was to gain a recognised qualification in proofreading to pursue a career change. The course was excellent and has given me the confidence to make this feasible . ” Audrey, Morpeth, Northumberland, UK

Who is it for?

• Editorial staff looking to build or refresh their skills, or learn from the beginning
• Those who proofread as part of their job and lack formal training
• Anyone wanting to work as a freelance proofreader

What will you achieve?

On completing this course you’ll be able to:

• Mark up on screen and on paper, and understand the differences between the two
• Mark up on screen in Adobe Reader and Microsoft Word
• Use and understand British Standards Institution symbols
• Make informed decisions when marking up proofs – what to change, what to leave

What are the key benefits?

• Convenient and flexible – study from home, in your own time, at your own pace
• The support of a personal tutor at every stage of assessment
• 30 self-check exercises to help you learn and practise
• Receive a completion certificate from PQB, graded with a pass, merit or distinction. It’s the most widely recognised industry qualification!
• Career advice and recommendations for further training

Course contents

• Welcome to Essential Proofreading
• Unit 0: Techniques and good practice
• Unit 1: Proofreading or proof-editing?
• Unit 2: Working on PDFs I
• Unit 3: Working on PDFs II
• Unit 4: Working for publishers
• Unit 5: The BSI symbols

For more information please see our Self-Study FAQs.

Student feedback

“I've learned how to use the latest software, which is essential for most proofreading nowadays. The detailed feedback, encouragement and discussions with my tutor were extremely helpful. This course has refreshed my knowledge of proofreading skills and given me the confidence to apply for proofreading work.” Keith, Cheltenham, UK

“Prior to taking the course, my proofreading experience was solely with charities and academic institutions. I've now learnt a huge amount about how to proofread for traditional publishers. I'm better equipped to work with non-traditional publishers: I'm up to speed with standard ways of working, and can work across a variety of formats. I’ve gained a formal qualification and know where to find guidance when I'm unsure.” Hannah, Dereham, UK

“The course was excellent. I wanted to formalise my skills and learn more time-effective methods. Also, if I decide to move to a dedicated publishing firm, then I will be more confident that I am familiar with industry-standard practices.” Anonymous, Dublin, Ireland

“I plan to change career and begin a freelance proofreading business. Passing the course was the first step in getting this underway. My objectives were very well achieved. I learned a great deal and passed the course with distinction.” Student from Mold, UK

“I've certainly learned a new skill and obtained a formal qualification. I'm trying to add some freelancing to my life, and having this certificate gives me both the confidence and qualification to jump into the market.” Lorenzo, Trondheim, Norway

“ This course helped me to work with digital tools and learn the core practices of proofreading. It hugely boosted my confidence in presenting myself as a proofreader. With the formal certificate, and access to directories and forums to help develop my new skills, I am certain of finding work in the field . ” Student, Galway, Ireland

“After completing Essential Proofreading, I can work more confidently with English texts and help others (especially other foreign students) to express themselves and their opinions on paper. My new skills have already helped me publish my own book!” Nikolaos, Thessaly, Greece

“I wanted to consolidate my existing proofreading experience  – picked up "on the job" whilst working in-house at a variety of publishers – and update my skills to include on-screen proofreading. I also wanted to gain a qualification to feel more confident in marketing myself as a freelance proofreader. These objectives have been achieved.” Student, Bromley, UK

“Proofreading is a career change for me. Prior to undertaking the course, I had a love of language and a keen eye for spotting mistakes and inconsistencies. Now I have the skills to use the necessary tools and am aware of so many more areas that I need to pay attention to. I feel confident in honing these skills and exploring opportunities to work in the field.” Student, Istanbul, Turkey

"An excellent course. I have a better understanding of professional-level proofreading, a stronger grasp of punctuation/grammar and improved judgement with regard to editorial decision-making. I also know how to use a range of tools to mark up proofs and feel far more confident with the BSI symbols." Darren, Gravesend, UK

"The course was packed with the information needed to be a freelancer, including practise exercises to help develop my editing skills, and my tutor was generous with feedback. Since completing the course, I’ve proofread several books for publishers." Taliha Quadri, Freelance Proofreader, Luton, UK

What's included?

Personal tutor

Each student is assigned their own tutor, an experienced proofreader, who provides course-related support through the duration and for up to three months after completion.

Course materials and access to online learning platform

There are six learning modules, all of which contain self-check exercises. Four modules also contain a longer assignment that you will submit to your personal tutor for marking and commentary.

You’ll have full access to the PTC's online learning platform, through which all course materials are accessed. Downloadable materials mean you can practise your new skills as many times as you need, to feel confident that you have mastered them.

Please note, you will need Adobe Reader DC (free version) and Microsoft Word (2010 or later) in order to complete the coursework.

Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP) points

Passing this course is worth between 10 and 20 points towards upgrading your CIEP membership.

Exclusive offers

By signing up to Essential Proofreading , you can claim these exclusive offers.

• 30% off the distance-learning course, Essential Grammar . Usually priced at £50, Essential Proofreading  students will pay only £35, saving you £15.
• 50% off the open course, How to mark up PDFs with Adobe Acrobat . With a full price of £165 + VAT, this half-day course is offered to Essential Proofreading  students for £82.50 + VAT, saving you £82.50.

How to enrol and pay

Payment options

Essential Proofreading is on special offer at £345. You can pay for the course in three instalments:

• Instalment 1: £115
• Instalment 2: £115
• Instalment 3: £115

The first instalment is payable at the point of enrolment. 

The next two instalments will be collected between the 20th and the last day of the month, for the next two months.

To enrol, you need to click on the ‘Add to Cart’ button on this page. You will be asked to register (if you have not already done so) and, at that point, will be able to pay immediately by credit/debit card. 

Money-back guarantee

If, within 30 days of buying the course (and before any assignments have been sent to your tutor for marking), you decide that the course is not for you, simply let us know and we will issue a full refund. Note that access to the learning platform will cease once your refund is confirmed.

Course completion

You must complete the course within 12 months of enrolment. If you wish to continue the course beyond this period, you can study for a further 12 months following payment of a £75 re-registration fee. Any further extensions are at the discretion of The Publishing Training Centre.

Please read our Terms & Conditions .

To purchase this course, please add it to your cart via the link at the top of the page.

About the authors

Gillian Clarke  has been a freelance proofreader and editor since 1975. She is a founder member and honorary member of the Society for Editors and Proofreaders (SfEP), now the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP), and was responsible for setting up its training programme. 

Margaret Aherne  has worked since 1986 as a proofreader, copy-editor, project manager and tutor/mentor for a wide range of publishing clients, as well as for bodies such as the Audit Commission . She is a founder member of the Society for Editors and Proofreaders (SfEP), now the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP), and is a mentor in proofreading and copy-editing on the SfEP’s mentoring scheme.

Related courses

The PTC offers virtual classroom courses, self-study distance-learning courses, and a range of e-learning modules. See below for those that complement or build on this course.  

Virtual classroom courses

• Copyright - the basics
• Grammar and punctuation - the basics
• How to mark up PDFs with Adobe Acrobat
• Introduction to Editorial Skills
• Line-editing workshop
• Progress in Editorial Skills
• Working with Authors

Distance-learning courses

• Essential Copy-editing   
• Essential Grammar
• Successful Editorial Freelancing

e-Learning modules

• A comprehensive guide to copy-editing
• Proofreading PDFs: A complete guide for editors

Enrol now by choosing your payment method at the top of the page. The price of this course has been held since December 2019.

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If you are from an organisation and need to request an invoice to pay on someone else’s behalf, please complete this form

The PQB is responsible for the development, delivery and assessment of these self-study tutor-guided courses.

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Core proofreading courses

Our core proofreading courses are designed to introduce you to the skills and knowledge that you’ll need to be successful as a proofreader. If you want to work as a freelance proofreader, you’ll need a sure way to prove your professional competence in a competitive market.

Our proofreading training courses are designed by experienced practitioners to help get you up and running as a competent and professional proofreader, and our training is highly regarded in the publishing industry.

Proofreading 1: Introduction is a self-assessed course, but students have access to a member of the CIEP tutor team should they need any support.  Proofreading 2: Headway and Proofreading 3: Progress are both assessed courses, and students will work with a dedicated tutor throughout both courses. Find out more about our core proofreading courses below. 

Proofreading 1: Introduction

Want to learn the basics of proofreading? Start with this introductory course.

Proofreading 2: Headway

Ready to hone your proofreading skills? This course is your next step.

Proofreading 3: Progress

Ready to consolidate your proofreading skills? Complete the suite with this final course.

Proofreading courses FAQs

Do i have to complete all three of the core proofreading courses.

We strongly recommend that students start with Proofreading 1: Introduction and work their way through the courses. However, we understand that students have varied levels of experience and existing skills and knowledge. If you feel that you meet the criteria listed on the relevant course page, you may be eligible to enrol directly on the Headway or Progress course. If you would like advice on which course is most relevant to you, please email our professional development manager at [email protected] .

There’s no requirement to take Proofreading 3: Progress . However, completion of all three stages of the proofreading suite will prepare students well for a successful career in proofreading.

How long does each course take to complete?

Students have access to all CIEP e-learning courses for six months from the date of enrolment. We recommend allowing at least 10–15 hours of study time to complete Proofreading 1: Introduction , and at least 20–25 hours for Proofreading 2: Headway and Proofreading 3: Progress .

Will I receive a certificate after completing the course?

Yes, all students receive a certificate upon completion of their proofreading course.

Does completion of the course(s) count towards my CIEP membership upgrade application?

Yes. Completion of Proofreading 1: Introduction is worth 2 upgrade points, or 3 points upon successfully passing a short post-course quiz. Proofreading 2: Headway and Proofreading 3: Progress attract 2 upgrade points each for completion, with an additional 3 points each for passing the course.

Start proofreading with live webinars

Did you know we also offer Proofreading 1: Introduction as a virtual learning course?

Find out about upcoming dates

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Becoming A Proofreader

40% Off | BACKTOSCHOOL40 | Offer Ends Aug 31, 11:59PM PST Right now, there are over 100K open jobs requiring proofreading skills. Take our online proofreading course, Becoming A Proofreader, to receive comprehensive training, earn a professional certificate, and unlock these job opportunities to start your new career!

• CPD accredited
• Beginner friendly
• Guaranteed work with Proofed
• Takes 4–6 weeks at 5 hours a week
• 100% self-paced learning with lifetime course access
• 24/7 expert tutor support
• Private alumni group

Get Certified and Dive into a Proofreading Career

Certified Becoming A Proofreader graduates have proofread for a wide variety of clients across many different industries.

Interested in our guaranteed work offer? Learn more about our bundle offer here!

Who is this online proofreading course for.

You can become a freelance proofreader if you aspire to…

Kick-start a career in something you’ve always enjoyed

• Earn more, or boost your existing income
• Leave behind an unfulfilling job
• Start a career in something that truly interests you

Gain more flexibility and work from anywhere

• Work from home or while traveling, switching on and off whenever you want to
• Work for yourself around your family’s schedule
• Organize your work around your life, not the other way around

Work on rewarding projects where your expertise is needed and appreciated

• Stay active in your retirement
• Earn extra income to put toward trips and new experiences
• Get a sense of accomplishment while helping others

Introducing Our Becoming A Proofreader Course

13 modules, 78 lessons, and dozens of practice-based exercises.

You’ll learn unique skills that are essential for a successful freelance proofreading career. Plus, you’ll have the chance to try out simulated client scenarios that will prepare you to tackle the real thing.

Comprehensive content

Learn about common mistakes, working to style guides, differences between US and UK English, useful shortcuts, tracking tools, and the nuances of proofreading different types of writing, including creative, business, and academic.

Interactive by design

It’s more than just words on a screen! With a mix of videos, quizzes, and practical try-it-yourself exercises, we’ll help you stay engaged every step of the way.

Built by proofreading experts

You’ll learn from materials carefully crafted by academics and proofreading experts, whose knowledge of grammar and punctuation served as launchpads for their own careers.

1:1 interaction with tutors

One of the best things about this course is our friendly, knowledgeable tutor team. They are always available to give one-on-one assistance and genuinely want to see you succeed. After receiving your final assignment results, you’ll have a call with a tutor who will give you detailed, tailored feedback.

Self-paced learning

There’s no pressure and no ticking clocks. With total control over your education, you can complete the course in under one month or in six months if life is busy. When you’re finished, you can come back to it anytime.

Leads to work opportunities

When you pass the Becoming A Proofreader and Becoming An Editor final assignments with scores of at least 80%, you’ll have the option to onboard with Proofed and start a 10-document paid trial, working on real client documents.

Becoming A Proofreader Course Curriculum

Here is a sneak peek of what you will learn in each module

Module 1: An Introduction To Becoming A Proofreader

Module 2: proofreading and editing, module 3: the basics of microsoft word, module 4: common spelling mistakes, module 5: common grammar mistakes, module 6: common punctuation mistakes, module 7: other common errors, module 8: proofreading in practice: style, module 9: academic proofreading, module 10: academic proofreading: referencing and citations, module 11: proofreading business writing, module 12: creative writing and the publishing industry, module 13: finding work and the final assignment, our learners’ real reviews from trustpilot.

They took a leap of faith and transformed their careers – gaining flexibility, extra income, and, often, a sense of purpose by helping others with their writing.

How Our Course Works

Here’s what you can expect after starting the course:

Complete the course and take the final assignment

Work through the lessons at your own pace, and complete the try-it-yourself exercises and interactive quizzes to test out your new knowledge and developing skills. If you have any questions, you can contact the tutor team at any time. In the last module, you’ll come to the final assignment. This is an open-book exam, and you can take as long as you need to complete it.

Get detailed feedback and receive your CPD-accredited certificate

Your final assignment will be graded by one of the tutor team, and you’ll receive your score, detailed feedback, and a course completion certificate. You’ll also have the opportunity to schedule a one-on-one call with a tutor to discuss your assignment and tips for honing your skills.

Explore job opportunities with our course bundle

Our work guarantee is available for graduates of both Becoming An Editor and Becoming A Proofreader . If you score 80% or more in the final assignment for each of these courses, we’ll offer you a 10-document paid work trial with our partner company, Proofed.

Proofreading Course Reviews ⭐

Here’s what our graduates say:

As a working mom, it gave me the confidence to start a career later in life and the feeling that I could do it.

“Out of all the different courses out there that I took, this one gave me the fundamentals that prepared me to work in the proofreading industry.”

Now I can work around my family schedule and organize work around life, not the other way around.

“After taking the course, a pool of options opened up to me. Proofreading is a nice add-on and a security blanket that brings me the extra income and flexibility I need.”

I used to do a job anyone could do. Now I have something unique to offer which led to increased self-esteem.

“I thought I might pass the test and then receive some email explaining why I was wrong for thinking I’d get to work for Proofed. Those worries were groundless though; I’ve worked for Proofed for ten months now.”

Working with Proofed, I get to read student work and help people at the start of their careers, which feels quite satisfying.

“It’s a flexible, informative and well-thought-out course. Gives you insights into what’s expected of you in this job. I’m happy to have found a new way to make money to supplement my retirement. Now I can travel and eat out with my wife feeling like I deserve it”.

Earn Guaranteed Work with Our Proofreading & Editing Course Bundle

You’ll learn:

• The essential skills needed to be a professional proofreader
• How to fix common spelling, grammar, and punctuation mistakes
• The appropriate style and tone to ensure that a document suits its intended audience and purpose
• How to use the tools in Microsoft Word so that you can apply these newfound skills

Becoming An Editor

• How to take your skills to the next level and perform a more in-depth review
• The difference between comprehensive, line, and copy editing
• How to apply editing principles according to structure, content, and style
• How to edit different types of documents, including academic, business, and creative writing, plus online copy and translated texts

Meet Our Friendly Tutors

They were once where you are now, and they’re here to give you the confidence that you can do it too.

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Proofreading Course

Guaranteed work sounds great, but surely there’s a catch.

There are no hidden surprises with our guaranteed work offer.

If you pass Becoming A Proofreader and Becoming An Editor with a distinction score (at least 80%) in each final assignment, we’ll offer you the chance to take up a 10-document work trial with our partner company, Proofed – one of the world’s leading proofreading and editing services. If you successfully pass this paid trial, you’ll gain access to the wider Proofed platform and be able to accept bigger and better-paying documents. As you build confidence and experience, you may also be invited to take on specialist work with business clients, further boosting your earning potential.

And if you don’t score 80% first time, it’s no problem. You can purchase additional attempts, and you’ll receive ample support from our friendly tutor team along the way.

How does this proofreading course work?

Becoming A Proofreader is made up of 13 comprehensive modules, each focusing on a different aspect of proofreading. You can progress through the course at your own pace and return to completed modules for a refresher whenever you like.

As well as informative written content, each module includes interactive elements such as videos, try-it-yourself exercises, and quizzes. These are designed for you to test your skills as you work your way through the course, and they help highlight any areas you might want to revisit. But don’t worry, none of these count toward your final grade!

When you reach the final module, we’ll guide you through some key revision areas and provide you with a mock assignment. This is a great opportunity for you to try out your skills and see the kinds of edits you should be making in a document. The mock test isn’t marked by a tutor, but it comes with our edited version and a set of notes so you can review your work.

When you’re ready, you can then progress to the final assignment! This consists of two proofreading tests, on which you’ll receive detailed tutor feedback. You can take as long as you need to complete the tests, and you are encouraged to refer back to the course while you work. If you score 80% or above for this course and Becoming An Editor, you’ll be offered the opportunity to undertake a 10-document paid work trial as a freelance proofreader with Proofed. And if you don’t pass the first time, don’t panic! You can purchase additional attempts.

What kinds of writing does your proofreading course cover?

In Becoming A Proofreader, we cover the main subjects professional proofreaders are likely to work in. Creative, business, and academic writing are all included. If you’re just starting out, we recommend gaining experience in all areas before you decide to focus on a particular type of writing.

Do you teach proofreading symbols or marks?

At Knowadays, our courses have always been based on the need for editing and proofreading in a digital world. We recognize that most clients work on a computer with internet access and need documents to be proofread immediately.

We don’t teach the use of proofreading symbols as most proofreaders today are unlikely to use them. There may be some customers who prefer the traditional methods of proofreading, but most work will be done digitally.

How long will it take to complete the course? Can I start my proofreading course at any time?

One of the great things about learning with Knowadays is that you get to set the pace. When you buy one of our courses, you get lifetime access. This means you can get started whenever you want, and you can take as little or as much time as you need.

Is there a UK and a US version of the proofreading course?

Yes, there are two versions of the course! You will be assigned the US version as standard, but if you would prefer the UK version instead, you can email us at [email protected] and we will make the switch for you.

How do I know proofreading is the career for me?

Before making any kind of career change, we recommend asking yourself three questions:

What do I enjoy doing? What skills do I possess or would I be willing to learn? What would make me happy career-wise?

A career in proofreading might be for you if:

• You enjoy reading, writing, and learning about the English language
• You have great attention to detail and often spot errors in written material
• You have good time management, technology, and organizational skills (or would be willing to develop them!)
• You want a career that is flexible, rewarding, varied, and always teaching you new things

With so many proofreading courses available, how do I know this is the right one?

We know there are a lot of different options out there, and weighing them up can be a daunting task.

One of the best ways to see if a course is right for you is to give it a go, which is precisely why you can take two lessons from the course for free. You can get a feel for learning with Knowadays by exploring our example modules, complete with interactive activities and quizzes.

It’s also worth asking yourself:

•  Does the course cover the fundamentals?
• Does it include practical exercises to test your skills?
• Do you get access to learning support?
• Does the course have good reviews?
• Do you get a certification?

When you learn with Knowadays, the answer to all of these questions is yes! Plus we’ve been recognized as the Editorial Training Provider Of The Year (UK) in the 2023 Corporate LiveWire Innovation & Excellence Awards.

What’s the difference between proofreading and copy editing?

If you think of the editing process as a timeline, copy editing happens toward the end – after developmental and line editing have been finished but before the final proofread:

Developmental editing ➜ Line/stylistic editing ➜ Copy editing ➜ Proofreading

A copy editor’s role is to ensure that words, sentences, and paragraphs work together to properly express the author’s ideas while maintaining the author’s voice.

A proofreader focuses on fixing mechanical errors, such as spelling mistakes or typos, grammatical issues, and misused or missing punctuation. You can read more about this in our blog .

Modern digital proofreading can touch upon some elements of copy writing because it’s no longer constrained by the limitations of the printing press. Some clients may not exactly know if they need a proofreader or a copy editor, but our course teaches you all about the remit of each role, plus how to establish the scope of the task before you start.

What do I need to take the course? What will I need to study for this course?

There’s no need to study anything beforehand. To complete the course, you’ll need a laptop or desktop computer with an internet connection and access to a full version of Microsoft Word (2016, 2019, 2021, or 365).

Although you can view the course on smartphones, tablets, and Chromebooks, they use a limited version of Microsoft Word that doesn’t include all the necessary tools. Plus, a larger screen size is preferable for study.

Other than that, all you need is the ability to set aside some study time, a little self-discipline, and the desire to learn about all things proofreading!

If English is not your first language, you can still take the course, but please note that passing the final assignment calls for a high-level understanding of written English.

Do I need any qualifications or previous experience to enroll in the course?

The simple answer is no!

Becoming A Proofreader is designed to cover everything you need to know to start work as a professional proofreader, so you don’t need any qualifications or previous experience. This course is your path from complete beginner to confident, trained professional.

That being said, lots of experienced professionals take Knowadays courses too! If you’re looking to brush up on your existing skills or find new avenues of work, our Becoming A Proofreader course can help you do just that.

Is Becoming A Proofreader a certified course? Do I get a proofreading qualification?

Becoming A Proofreader is accredited by CPD – a professional body that certifies excellence in professional development training. CPD-certified courses are rigorously tested by industry experts, which makes them a valuable addition to your resume. When you successfully complete the course, you’ll receive a digital certificate via email. This is a great way to showcase your achievements, and it lets potential employers and clients know that your knowledge and skills are up to date.

How much does the proofreading course cost?

Our course is $499 (which is cheaper than other proofreading courses out there!). If you’re also interested in learning how to edit, we offer a bundle of two courses for $849, saving you 15% and giving you the opportunity to work with Proofed. Learn more about the bundle here .

Is there a money-back guarantee?

Yes! Course purchases will be refunded in full if requested within 14 days of the purchase date (see our terms and conditions ).

If you’d like to request a refund, all you need to do is email us at [email protected] and we’ll be in touch.

Does it matter where I live?

You can be anywhere in the world! All you’ll need is a computer (PC or Mac), an internet connection, and a full version of Microsoft Word (2016 or later).

Please note that to work with Proofed, your country of residence must have a tax treaty with the United States Internal Revenue Service and use a currency that’s compatible with Proofed’s payment platform. These countries are listed here .

If I successfully complete the Becoming A Proofreader course, am I guaranteed work with Proofed?

When you pass both our Becoming A Proofreader and Becoming An Editor courses with distinction scores of 80% or higher, you’ll have the chance to begin a 10-document trial period with our partner company, Proofed.

Completing only Becoming A Proofreader does not guarantee work with Proofed, but you can still launch an independent career as a professional proofreader!

Is there a demand for proofreaders?

There is no shortage of demand for proofreaders!

From businesses to academic institutions, publishing houses to nonprofits, all sorts of organizations produce content that requires proofreading. Although some deal with this in-house, there is always a demand for professional freelance proofreaders who can get the job done to a high standard.

Webpages, blog posts, social media content, email newsletters, essays, novels, manuscripts, journal articles, legal documents, medical writing – there is a huge variety of proofreading work available (and that’s not even the full list!).

How much money do proofreaders make?

The rates proofreaders charge can vary significantly based on factors such as:

• How experienced you are
• How complex the job is
• Whether you are working in a specialist subject area
• The type of client

The EFA (US) suggests a minimum hourly rate of $31–$45 (depending on the nature of the project). The CIEP (UK) suggests a minimum hourly rate of £28.65.

When you start out, it is likely you will be earning less than this, as you may need to market your services competitively in order to build up a client base (as well as your confidence and experience!). But as you gain practice and develop your skills, you also gain the ability to charge higher rates.

You can read more about setting rates as a proofreader in our blog .

Can you make a living proofreading?

Definitely! There are lots of factors that influence how much a proofreader can charge, and figures on average income vary depending where you look. However, the figures all have something in common – they show it’s completely possible to make a living proofreading.

Hundreds of Knowadays graduates are doing just that, whether by working for Proofed, signing up with other agencies, or building their own freelance businesses.

As with any career, you have to be willing to put in the work to develop your skills, find clients, and gain experience. But if you do that, you’re sure to succeed!

Plus, as you gain experience, or complete additional training or accreditation, you can raise your rates accordingly.

How do I get my first proofreading job?

If you pass your final assignment with a distinction score of 80% or above for this course and Becoming An Editor, you won’t need to worry about finding your first proofreading job. As part of our guaranteed work offer, you’ll have the chance to take up a 10-document paid work trial with our partner company, Proofed, soon after completing the course.

If you’d prefer to source your own clients, or you want to combine working with Proofed with working independently, there are a number of things you can do. Explore our blog to pick up freelance tips and read guidance on how to find proofreading work . And for the practical elements of setting up your own freelance business, check out our Becoming A Freelancer course.

Who can I discuss my questions and doubts with?

We’re here to help you decide whether Becoming A Proofreader is right for you, and we’ll guide you through your journey if you take the course. Our tutors have been exactly where you are now, and they will make sure you feel taken care of at all times.

Email us your questions at [email protected] , or get in touch to ask about scheduling a chat with one of the team.

• No payment info
• No hidden costs

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Copy-editing and Proofreading

Price: £ 565.00, 100 pages +, assignments, of varying length, the copy-editing and proofreading course, become a professional copy-editor and proofreader, learn how to edit and proofread documents like a pro.

The Copy-editing and Proofreading Course is for grammar experts who want to work professionally in the editing field. It also provides an excellent foundation for anyone who needs to edit documents in the workplace.

If you are particular about word choice, and if typos and clunky sentences drive you to distraction, you may have what it takes to be an editor. 

This practical course will teach you how to copy-edit and proofread fiction, non-fiction and academic writing. 

We’ll help you gain the skills you need to get hired by publishers, business owners and curators of online content. A professional editor will be on hand to guide you and assess your work every step of the way.

The Copy-editing and Proofreading Course Gives You...

No automated marking.

We use traditional methods of assessing work, as editors at publishing houses would. No generic feedback!

A Flexible Schedule

Work wherever and whenever you want. You can easily fit our courses around work and other commitments.

Relevant, Usable Content

Easy-to-digest course notes that capture a lifetime of writing experience, ready for you to apply to your own writing.

Ongoing Assessment

Your writing is assessed continuously as your course progresses.

Expert, Individual Feedback

Get prompt, honest, detailed feedback on every assignment from an award-winning writer. We focus on your unique writing strengths.

No Peer Reviews!

You will only be assessed by your tutor, a leader in their field. No more guessing and wondering how to write; you'll be guided line by line.

A Comprehensive Toolkit That Provides Hands-On Editorial Training

Master the skills required to run your own editing and proofreading business.

Learn how to transform problematic writing into grammatically correct, well-structured and engaging content.

This eight-month course will teach you the basic skills of copy-editing and proofreading so that you can make consistent and confident decisions when correcting texts.

Note that this course does not teach the rules of grammar. Rather, students will complete several written assignments of increasing complexity to gain proficiency in the skills of proofreading and copy-editing. Individual feedback will be provided by your tutor upon submission of each assignment.

In this course, you will learn how to:

query or correct spelling, grammar and syntactical errors in a given text

correct, flag or query content-related errors in a given text

proofread hard copy as well as on-screen text

embark on a career in copy-editing and proofreading

Additional requirements for this course:

Students are expected to consult one of the prescribed style guides for every editing decision they make. The style guides are an additional purchase , and are essential reference material for those students wishing to pursue a career in copy-editing and proofreading.

A second-hand edition that is within ten years old of the most recent edition will suffice perfectly well. Please note that we use UK English at the college.

You will also need to use MS Word and the ‘Track Changes’ function. This is considered an industry standard for copy-editing and proofreading work.

Option 1: (Print)

The Oxford Style Manual or the New Oxford Style Manual

Option 2: (e-Book)

New Hart’s Rules: The Oxford Style Guide. This edition does not include a dictionary, so you will need to buy one separately.

This course precisely provided the challenges I needed to highlight the flaws in my own writing and copy-editing processes. There was never a dull moment! My tutor struck the perfect balance between peer and teacher and was incredibly kind, approachable and motivating. Her feedback was always encouraging and clear. Enjoyable. Tough. Precisely what I needed.

Dené janse van rensburg, copy-editing and proofreading course, course overview, price includes vat, number of assignments, the assignments vary in length., number of modules, these modules include around 100 pages of course notes., course duration, work at your own pace – up to a maximum of eight months. we suggest a minimum of four months., start date: anytime.

Working with an individual tutor means you can start the course at any time.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

• Excellent grammar knowledge is essential.
• Computer skills, e-mail and Internet access required.
• No previous tertiary qualification required.

Tutor for this Course

Course Curriculum

• Introduction to the course
• Recommended reference works and resources
• Using ‘Track Changes’
• Using a house style guide
• Editing Assignment 1.1
• Editing Assignment 1.2
• Editing Assignment 1.3
• What is copy-editing?
• Correcting punctuation
• Editing Assignment 2.1
• Editing Assignment 2.2
• Editing Assignment 2.3 
• Explore copy-editing in practice
• Maintaining a style sheet
• Correcting spelling, hyphenation and homophones
• Editing Assignment 3.1
• Editing Assignment 3.2
• Editing Assignment 3.3
• Correcting capitalisation
• Understanding the treatment of names and numbers
• Editing Assignment 4.1
• Editing Assignment 4.2
• Editing Assignment 4.3
• Explore proofreading in practice
• Correcting quotations, references and abbreviations
• Editing Assignment 5.1
• Editing Assignment 5.2
• Editing Assignment 5.3
• Correcting grammar errors
• Editing Assignment 6.1
• Editing Assignment 6.2
• Editing Assignment 6.3
• Correcting factual errors
• Correcting formatting errors
• Editing Assignment 7.1
• Editing Assignment 7.2
• Editing Assignment 7.3
• Editing Assignment 8.1
• Editing Assignment 8.2
• Editing Assignment 8.3
• Where to look for work
• What to charge
• How to invoice
• Editing Assignment 9.1
• Editing Assignment 9.2
• Editing Assignment 9.3
• Hardcopy Proofreading
• Proofreading Academic Theses
• Substantive Editing

*Students may choose to do more than one elective. These will be invoiced separately.

What Our Students Say

Get these additional benefits, lifetime course access.

Benefit from free lifetime access to future course updates and access to our writing resources.

Work at Your Own Pace

Our courses work around you. You can pace your course around your busy life.

500+ Bonus Articles on Our Blog

A superb, constantly updated resource with articles on writing and interviews with writers.

Work Opportunities

Top students are invited to join our writers and editors for hire service.

Be the First to Know About Writing Competitions

We'll help you keep up to date with the latest competition announcements

Join a Community of Writers

You will have access to our friendly Facebook community, daily writing tips and writing inspiration.

Risk-Free 100% Money-Back Guarantee

We are so confident that you will love your course that if you’re not 100% satisfied with the quality of our training, simply ask for a refund within 30 days.

Complete the Application Form to Enrol on the Copy-editing and Proofreading Course

You will receive an approval email and invoice within one working day.

Should your form not submit, please let admin know at [email protected]

Questions? We've Got Answers

Detailed course notes covering the content of each module are emailed to you. At the end of each module, you will be required to complete several writing exercises. Once the writing assignment has been completed and emailed to your tutor, you will receive an assessment and feedback, and the module will be considered complete.

Absolutely. You have direct communication with your tutor for the duration of the course. The more questions you ask, the more you will get out of the course.

You will get lifetime access to the course. You will also benefit from future updates and improvements to the course.

For the majority of our courses, only your tutor will see your work. It will remain completely private unless you get it published. The journalism courses might see your work published in the public domain, but you do have the final say as to whether or not this happens.

You will receive a Writers College Certificate upon successful completion of the course, provided you meet the following conditions: 

You must have completed all assignments.

A minimum average of 50% must be achieved.

The course must have been completed within eight months of registration.

Excellent grasp of grammar, punctuation, spelling and English usage. (You should consider our Grammar for Writers Course if you need to sharpen your grammar skills.)

Computer skills as well as email and Internet access are required.

Use of Microsoft Word and the Track Changes function.

• A printer and a scanner or camera are required only if you do the Hardcopy elective in Module Ten.

No previous tertiary qualification is required.

Because you will work with an individual tutor, you can start your course as soon as your application has been approved. There are no specific start dates as would be the case with a traditional college.

An application is usually approved within one working day. Once we receive proof of payment, your can start your course.

You could be starting your course today!

Reading Time: 20 hours

Editing Time: Up to 30 hours

You have eight months to complete the course (and an extra 21 days if your course runs over the Christmas and New Year break).

You are welcome to finish the course sooner if you want to, but we wouldn’t want you to rush the process too much!

Once your application has been approved, you will receive notification of approval and an invoice via email. As soon as we receive proof of payment, the first module as well as your tutor’s email address and your login details will be sent to you. Your tutor will also be in touch to welcome you.

Any work created on our courses is owned by you. We will never make a claim to anything you produce. We follow the rule that copyright subsists with the creator (you).

'The course opened up a whole new world for me - a challenge that I enjoyed tremendously. Di was very helpful.’

Stefenie kruger, copy-editing and proofreading course, got more questions, we would love to help you choose the best course for you. tell us what style of writing you want to develop and we'll give you some options., journalism courses, writing articles for websites and blogs, freelance journalism for magazines and webzines, advanced freelance journalism, travel writing, write a non-fiction book, creative writing courses, basics of creative writing, advanced creative writing, short story writing course, advanced short story writing, write a novel, write a romance novel, advanced novel writing, writing science fiction and fantasy, an introduction to poetry, advanced poetry, scriptwriting, advanced scriptwriting, writing for video games, writing books for children | part one, writing books for children | part two, write your memoir, advanced memoir writing, business & grammar, grammar for writers (english 1st language), grammar skills (english 2nd language), business writing toolkit, writing coach course, mastering punctuation, report writing and presentation, write better newsletters, specialist courses, press release and media writing, copywriting, writing seo copy for websites, self-publish your e-book, writing intensives, self-guided 14-day creative writing intensive, self-guided 14-day story-building intensive, free 5-day creative writing challenge, buy a gift voucher, writing services:, writers and editors for hire, how we train, terms and conditions, privacy policy, connect with us, © 2005 - 2024 the writers college all rights reserved, [email protected], our refund policy.

If within seven days of starting your course you are not happy on your course, we can either transfer you to a different course or provide a full refund.

If you request a refund after seven days and before 30 days we will charge a 5% administrative fee, as well as any bank fees and tutor fees already incurred.

We do not offer a refund after 30 days on the course.

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• Proofreader courses

Proofreading Courses Online or Paper

NCC offers a variety of online proofreading courses that can help you improve your proofreading skills. We have courses on basic proofreading techniques , as well as more advanced topics like copyediting and manuscript preparation. Whether you're a student, a professional, or just someone who wants to improve their writing, our proofreading and editing courses can help you reach your goals. Browse our selection of proofreading courses below and get started today!

Expert Proofreading Courses Online

Proofreading is the process of examining a document for errors and making corrections. It's an important skill for anyone who wants to produce high-quality written work for their own business, or for clients. It can be a full-time job but can also be studied as a valuable extra skill.

Picking the right proofreading courses that are available in the UK is a very important task, it’s easy to get caught up in the details, which is why NCC is here to make the decision very simple for you. We have a whopping 25 years of experience, and this means that we are more than capable of providing you with whatever you need. You’re welcome to look at what’s on offer and use our unlimited assignment submissions to really nail your course. 

There are many different workplace situations where getting access to the best possible proofreading and editing courses will make all the difference, especially when you are looking to upskill for a new job or career. That’s why we try to make things as accessible as we can, by offering a price match guarantee and easy access to flexible payment terms.

Start Your Proofreading Journey Today 

When you take on a proofreading course, the tutors are as important as the course content. Our courses are taught by trained professionals who are more than happy to help you figure out exactly what’s going to work best. At the end of the day, you will also pick up a recognised qualification for completing the course. If you want to get involved with proofreading courses, then this is the best time to do it. We are more than happy to help you learn a brand-new skill, and will work with you as much as we need to make sure that you have the right course.

Are you ready to get started? Enrol today or speak to us via 0333 3445 690 or email [email protected] . 

14 Proofreader courses

Creative & Arts

Creative Writing Diploma

£30.00 /month

over 12 months and £29.00 deposit

or £389.00 pay in full price

Law & Legal

Proofreading Diploma Level 4

£34.17 /month

or £439.00 pay in full price

Proofreader

Blogging Level 4

This Blogging at QLS level 4 course shows you how to produce engaging content, which will ensure the longevity of your blog. 

£16.28 /month

over 12 months and £329.70 deposit

or £525.00 pay in full price

Business Writing Level 4 Diploma

Copywriting level 4 diploma.

Become an in-demand copywriter by learning how to write original, persuasive and engaging copy that gets results. 

English Language & Literature A Level

Our English Language & Literature A-Level course enhances your grasp of written English, readying you for Higher Education. Dive into analysing literature, language structure, and more with our flexible online A-Level English program.

Perfect for A level English online, our course provides comprehensive preparation in language and literature, leading to academic success. Join us at NCC Home Learning and embark on your journey towards mastering English A Level, paving the way for future educational endeavours and career opportunities.

£29.08 /month

over 12 months and £190.00 deposit

or £539.00 pay in full price

English Language GCSE

Tailored for learners seeking to bolster their reading and writing prowess, our GCSE English course online caters to native English speakers. Dive into our comprehensive program designed to elevate your GCSE Language techniques and skills.

With a focus on refining reading and writing abilities, our course offers expert guidance to ensure your success. Whether you're aiming to boost your confidence in English or striving for academic excellence, our online platform provides the perfect environment to achieve your goals.

£27.00 /month

over 12 months and £175.00 deposit

or £499.00 pay in full price

English Writing Skills Level 3

This comprehensive at QLS level 3 English writing course is specifically designed for people who want to improve their written English. This course equips you with the skills to write accurately, concisely and fluently.

Fiction Writing

The Fiction Writing course provides a comprehensive guide to successful fiction writing and focuses on a variety of creative writing techniques and styles.

£20.08 /month

over 12 months and £100.00 deposit

or £341.00 pay in full price

Functional Skills English Level 2 RQF

This is the ideal programme for individuals who would like to develop and enhance their English Skills

£20.42 /month

over 12 months and £150.00 deposit

or £395.00 pay in full price

Proofreading Diploma Level 3

This comprehensive Proofreading course is ideal for anyone wanting to brush up on their writing skills or explore a career as a professional proofreader/copy-editor for newspapers, blogs and publishing houses.

SEO Content Writing Level 4 Diploma

This SEO content writing course shows you how to produce focused content that achieves a high ranking on the most popular internet search engines. A good SEO ranking in an online search is a crucial factor in achieving success on the web.

Understanding the Principles and Practices of Assessment Award Level 3 (RQF)

This is an Ofqual regulated course to develop knowledge of the principles and practices of assessment without any requirement to practice as an assessor. The aim is to assess learners’ knowledge and understanding of the principles and practices that underpin assessment.

Qualification Title: TQUK Level 3 Award in Understanding the Principles and Practices of Assessment (RQF) Qualification Number: 601/3913/4 Total Credits: 3 UCAS Points: 8

£13.83 /month

or £195.00 pay in full price

Web Writing Level 4 Diploma

This broad based diploma helps you to understand the writing process and the skills that you, as an aspiring writer, will need.

Level 3 / NCFE / PI410

This Level 4 proofreading diploma will examine every facet of what makes for a successful and professional proofreader.

Level 4 / Quality Licence Scheme / PI188

Level 4 / Quality Licence Scheme / CMP13

Level 4 / Quality Licence Scheme / CMP12

Level 4 / Quality Licence Scheme / CMP22

Level 3 / Edexcel A Level / OSC26

Level 2 / AQA GCSE / OSC06

Level 3 / Quality Licence Scheme / CMP21

Level 3 / Quality Licence Scheme / SH040

Level 2 / NCFE CACHE / OXB04

Level 3 / Quality Licence Scheme / PI190

Level 4 / Quality Licence Scheme / CMP32

Level 3 / TQUK / PI147

Level 4 / Quality Licence Scheme / CMP81

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• Writing Courses

Proofreading & Editing Diploma Course

COURSE INFORMATION

ACCREDITATIONS

Available for a limited time only

With our Proofreading & Editing Course, you'll learn how to proofread and edit copy so that it is ready for publication. You’ll learn editing and the techniques used to perform the roles effectively, important information on language, and how to go about setting up your own business, offering proofreading and copy editing services.

The course begins by clearly defining copy editing and proofreading, noting the similarities and crossovers between them, and looking at each function separately. You’ll discover the skills needed for both roles and where each comes in the editing process and why, as well as the differences between newspaper and magazine editors and those who work in book publishing.

With roles defined, the Proofreading & Editing Course moves on to impart the fundamental skills of copy editing tables and figures, how to edit captions and footnotes, and how and why you should fact check. You’ll learn about the importance of style guides, the difference between a style guide and a style sheet, and the different style manuals that exist, before being provided with a template that will aid you in creating a style sheet of your own.

Proofreading can be tiring on the eyes and the mind, and with fatigue mistakes can be missed. The Proofreading & Editing Course introduces you to practical ways of ensuring greater effectiveness in your role as a proofreader. This includes an exploration of standards in proofing and an explanation of what is meant by “marking” or “marking up”. You will also be provided with two valuable resources to use in your proofing: a list of basic BSI mark-ups and a table of common homophones.

Also, helping you to find common errors quickly, the proofreading course examines major spelling mistakes and errors that appear regularly and why it is we spell words incorrectly. You’ll discover the ten most commonly broken spelling rules as well as what the exceptions to those rules are. Following this, the course outlines common grammatical mistakes you will come across, mistakes related to structure - such as sentence fragments, misplaced articles and misplaced and dangling modifiers – and problems with punctuation.

In addition to correcting the mistakes found in copy, you will learn how to improve upon the copy itself by using different sentence patterns to improve fluency, considering word choice, and spotting pleonasms and tautologies. The Proofreading & Editing Course also covers how verbs, nouns, adjectives and adverbs should all be addressed in writing and editing.

The last quality check before it is sent to the printers, the final proof is incredibly important, and, along with the front and back covers (in the case of a book), must be right. The course outlines how to manage the final proof and the most important areas to examine before you sign it off.

Having taught you the skills of an editor and a proofreader, the course concludes by guiding you through setting up as a sole trader/self-employed individual. You’ll learn how to register to pay tax, what should be included in your business plan, and how to market your new business.

By the end of the course, you will:

• Understand the editing process
• Clearly, comprehend the differences between proofreading and copy editing
• Know what a style guide and style sheet are and be equipped to create your own
• Comprehend the idea of marking up text on paper and be familiar with some of the most commonly used British Standard symbols
• Be able to apply 10 of the main spelling rules in the English language
• Be able to identify common grammar errors, such as fragment sentences and dangling modifiers
• Know how to identify the different elements of a text or manuscript
• Have the skills to be a proficient copy editor and a proofreader
• Know how to start your business as a self-employed editor and proofreader

Course Syllabus

What will I learn on the course?

Module 1 – What is Editing?

• Introduction
• Part 1: Definition of Editing
• Module Exercise
• Part 2: Different Editing Formats
• Answers to Module Exercise
• Test Your Knowledge
• Key Learning Points Exercise
• Module 1 Assessment

Module 2 – The Difference Between Copy Editing and Proofreading

• Part 1: Role of the Copy Editor
• Part 2: Copy Editing Skills List
• Part 3:  What is the Role of a Proofreader?
• Part 4: Proofreading Skills List
• Part 5: When do Copy Editing and Proofreading Occur?
• Part 6: Online Proofreading Tools
• Part 7: Summary
• Module Exercises
• Answers to Module Exercises
• Module 2 Assessment

Module 3 – Tables, Figures and Other Elements of Copy Editing

• Part 1: Tables
• Part 2: Figures
• Part 3: Checking Factual Information
• Part 4: Summary
• Module 3 Assessment

Module 4 – Applying Style

• Part 1: What is a Style Guide and Why is it Important?
• Part 2: Types of Style Guides
• Part 3: Creating Your Own Style Sheet
• Part 4: Example of a Style Sheet
• Part 5: Summary
• Module 4 Assessment

Module 5 – How to Proofread

• Part 1: Standards in Proofing
• Part 2: Key Steps
• Module 5 Assessment

Module 6 – Errors and Rules in Spelling

• Part 1: Why We Make Spelling Mistakes
• Part 2: Primary Spelling Rules
• Module 6 Assessment

Module 7 – Common Grammar Mistakes

• Part 1: Errors
• Part 2: Punctuation Errors
• Part 3: Summary
• Module 7 Assessment

Module 8 – Language

• Part 1: How to Edit for Fluency
• Part 2: How to Edit for Flow
• Part 3: Precision in Word Choice
• Module 8 Assessment

Module 9 – The Final Proof

• Part 1: What is a Print Proof?
• Part 2: Proofing a Book Cover
• Module 9 Assessment

Module 10 – Working as an Editor or Proofreader

• Part 1: Editing or Proofreading or Both?
• Part 2: Creating a Business Plan
• Module 10 Assessment

If you want to start a career as a proofreader or copy editor, this course will provide you with the knowledge and skills to be efficient and effective in each role and even includes guidance on setting up your own business offering these services.

If you are a writer hoping to self-publish or submit your work to a traditional publisher, then the Proofreading & Editing Course will give you the confidence to edit and proofread your own work - enhancing your work and your reputation as an author.

The Proofreading & Editing Diploma Course will take you up to 150 hours to complete, working from home. There is no time limit for completing this course, it can be studied in your own time at your own pace. This is a Level 3 course and will give you 150 CPD (Continued Professional Development) points.

Upon completion of your course assessments, you receive 2 certificates. A certificate from the Centre of Excellence and a CPD certificate displaying the number of CPD points earned from the course.

This course is endorsed by the Quality Licence Scheme. Therefore, upon successful completion of this course, learners can also receive a certificate of achievement from Quality Licence Scheme and a Learner Unit Summary, which lists the details of all the units the learner has completed as part of the course. (This certificate is optional and costs an additional £25).

The Quality Licence Scheme is part of the Skills and Education Group, a charitable organisation that unites education and skills-orientated organisations that share similar values and objectives. With more than 100 years of collective experience, the Skills and Education Group’s strategic partnerships create opportunities to inform, influence and represent the wider education and skills sector.

The Skills and Education Group also includes two nationally recognised awarding organisations; Skills and Education Group Awards and Skills and Education Group Access. Through their awarding organisations they have developed a reputation for providing high-quality qualifications and assessments for the education and skills sector. They are committed to helping employers, organisations and learners cultivate the relevant skills for learning, skills for employment, and skills for life.

Their knowledge and experience of working within the awarding sector enables them to work with training providers, through the Quality Licence Scheme, to help them develop high-quality courses and/or training programmes for the non-regulated market.

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Speed reading diploma course, ghostwriting business diploma course, successful self-publishing diploma course, travel blogging diploma course, copywriting diploma course, a state of the art e-learning experience.

We provide a state of the art online learning platform, accessible from anywhere, learning available 24/7.

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The best quality online courses at the very best price. Really well done, the courses are easy to understand and you make the subjects really interesting. Staff are helpful and supportive. You are truly the centre of excellence!

What's not to love about learning with the CoE

The course modules are in-depth & easy to read/understand. Prior to carrying out the assessment you are able to consolidate your learning by completing the test your knowledge & bullet pointing the learning objectives. Further to this, once you have completed each assessment you receive feedback, and you receive feedback once you complete the course.

Any issues you may encounter, the team at COE are on hand and respond quickly & efficiently - double bonus, you have lifetime access to all the courses you complete, great to revisit & brush up on your knowledge & they have online support through their Facebook group.

I really enjoyed this course. It was a lot more in depth and informative than I thought it would be.

I will definitely use the new knowledge and skills within my work.

Desc: I have done over 15 courses with CoE already and I can only recommend them. Friendly customer support, great topics, very alternative and unique courses you'll hardly find anywhere else. Also a huge selection of different interests, there is something for everyone. Great discount codes running at all times! What started as a way to cope with COVID has become a true passion for me. Thank you CoE!

Frequently Asked Questions

Below you’ll find the answers to the questions that we get asked the most regarding Centre of Excellence

How much time do I have to complete my course?

There is no time limit for completing your course it can be studied in your own time at your own pace.

How long will the course take me to complete?

All of our courses vary in length but most of our courses will take you between 50 - 250 hours to complete. The length of this course can be found in the Accreditations section above.

How do I start my course?

Once purchased your course is located in your Learning Centre on our website. Please log in using the same email address that you used when you purchased your course.

How do I purchase a printed copy of my course materials?

You can purchase a printed copy of your course materials at the checkout or from within your Learning Centre at any time after purchasing your course.

What Will I Learn In This Proofreading & Editing Diploma Course?

This course covers a range of topics related to proofreading, editing, and publishing. It includes lessons on grammar, punctuation, spelling, style, formatting, and more, as well as practical exercises and guidance for starting a freelance proofreading business.

Is This Online Proofreading & Editing Diploma Course Accredited?

Yes! This is a Level 3 Diploma in Proofreading & Editing and will give you 150 CPD (Continued Professional Development) points. Upon completion of your course assessments, you’ll receive 2 certificates: a certificate from the Centre of Excellence and a CPD certificate displaying the number of CPD points earned from the course.

Do You Offer This Proofreading & Editing Diploma Course As An Audio Course?

Yes! This course is also available as an audio course .

What Other Similar Courses Do You Offer?

We offer a great selection of writing courses , ranging from Screenplay Writing , to Travel Blogging and Poetry Writing .

What Is Proofreading?

Proofreading is the process of reviewing written material to identify and correct errors in grammar, spelling, punctuation, formatting, and style. Writers, publishers and businesses use proofreaders and editors to help catch errors and improve the quality of their written content. It is an essential step to ensure that written content is accurate, professional, and effective.

How Do I Get Into Proofreading & Editing?

One of the best ways to get into Proofreading and Editing is to start building your skills via resources like this Diploma Course, or any other training courses. You can also gain experience by offering your services to local businesses or organisations, or by applying for freelance proofreading and editing jobs.  Networking and building a professional online presence can also help you to establish yourself as a proofreader or editor.

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Thirty years of training in editorial skills

Learn to proofread and copy-edit with chapterhouse, fully certificated courses, distance learning, staffed by publishing professionals, train to do a job you’ll love, chapterhouse – training you to a professional standard.

Our correspondence courses have manuals with lots of exercises and model answers for self-assessment, and additional free exercises can be sent in for detailed marking and feedback by our tutors. Chapterhouse offers two different correspondence courses: the Proofreader Plus Course covers proofreading, and the  Proofreading and Editorial Skills Course deals with both proofreading and copy-editing. Chapterhouse correspondence students have up to a year to complete the course, so you can work from home, at your own pace. And you can get practice in the best companies in the world. We cooperate with well-known institutions. The list of best online casinos with which we have partner relations is available for perusal.

There is no ‘average’ student: no typical age, job, background or gender. Some of our students are highly educated. Others left school at sixteen. Some are scientists. Others write novels. Many want to start a freelance career earning money from home . Others want to enhance their existing job prospects or enrich their language skills.

Personal, friendly, traditional

Become a freelancer or upskill for your job, study at your own pace, full tutor support during and after the course, personal advice on finding work, help with applications and with your cv.

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With chapterhouse, you are in safe and trusted hands.

We also frequently train employees of major organisations, or run bespoke in-house courses for them. Over nearly thirty years we have trained people for hundreds of household-name organisations, including:

The Inland Revenue. The Ministry of Defence. The Home Office. DEFRA. The Institute of Legal Executives. Oberon Books. HSBC. Marie Curie Cancer Care. Bloomsbury Publishing. Sotheby’s. The International Courts of Justice. Public Health England. The World Trade Organization.

Professional standards

A small friendly company with high standards, low overheads: attractive fees, chapterhouse course materials are clear and comprehensive, chapterhouse certificates are valuable – and have been since 1991, the publishing industry respects our former students, we love to hear good news from our students.

I was able to leave teaching last summer and have supported myself since then through proofreading… I am thoroughly enjoying the work and my new lifestyle… thank you so much.

PD, Stanley

I have been able to inform a well-known company in Germany of my success and as a result am now contracted to them as a proofreader. You were right about Chapterhouse being ‘well respected in the UK and internationally’.

HD, Sheffield

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What Are the Best Proofreading Courses?

The best proofreading courses are programs that involve practice jobs, exams, tutoring, a certificate of completion, and a community of fellow students and graduates.

Is an Online Proofreading Course Right for You?

Are you the person your friends turn to when they need someone to proofread a letter before sending it? Maybe you were “that one kid” in class who actually looked forward to grammar assignments while the other kids groaned.

Let’s face it, if you’re on a proofreading blog, you’ve likely always had a knack for spotting weird sentence structure and all things grammar-related. Very few people are blessed (cursed?) with this gift, and even fewer people have figured out how to use their blessing to make money and form a career!

Did you know that the demand for transcript proofreaders has been on the rise every year since 2010?

Now that we live in a post-pandemic world that’s friendly to freelance work, the demand for proofreaders is higher than ever. As a result, online courses are popping up left and right! Proofread Anywhere has offered high-level general and transcript proofreading courses since 2014.

While Proofread Anywhere has plenty of glowing student reviews , proofreading is not easy work, and you will not become rich overnight. That said, you are in complete control when it comes to how many hours you work and the income you ultimately earn.

Essential Proofreading Skills

To become a proofreader , you don’t need previous experience but you do need to produce error-free documents to be a professional proofreader. The Proofread Anywhere courses will not only give you an introduction to proofreading but also the skills to correct writing errors and become a successful freelance proofreader.

Proofreaders will need:

• Strong attention to detail : This is a no-brainer. You must be able to catch those pesky errors that editors and writers might miss.
• Grammar, punctuation, and spelling skills should be far above average : If errors such as using “your” vs. “you’re” or random apostrophes added into plural nouns make you restless, you could be a natural!
• Dedication: Working multiple freelance proofreading jobs can be difficult and stressful, so you need to be willing to continue to work through tough times in order to find success.

Optional Skills and Experience

Even if you are a natural at proofreading, English is a dynamic language that progresses over time, so be prepared to stay up to date with your grammar education . Many of our students have reported that rules they learned in English class 20 years ago aren’t even correct anymore!

If you have experience in editing, grammar, and spelling, it may be easier for you to become a professional proofreader.

Language evolution is the #1 reason why choosing an online proofreading course with lifetime access to updates is in your best interest. As the industry evolves, we update the content — so you can update your brain!

Writing and Publishing

Whether you have experience writing emails, guides, or novels, having publishing and writing experience can help you understand the editing and proofreading process and how it feels to have your work edited or proofread. 

Having connections within the writing and publishing industry can also help you to find clients once you have your proofreading certificate and training finished.

proofreading career

What is Included in the Best Online Proofreading Courses?

No course would be complete without a thorough overview of the most common errors writers make in their copy.

The best online proofreading courses include modules that cover English grammar skills such as:

• Apostrophes
• Capitalization
• Commas and semicolons
• Commonly misused words
• Noun and pronoun agreement
• Quotation marks and italics
• Subject and verb agreement
• Common spelling errors

Choose a proofreading course that covers the nuances found among different English-speaking countries like the UK and Canada. It’s not just spelling that varies; punctuation varies as well.

Proofreading courses should also include access to tutors, downloadable resources, support, and a community so you can find answers when you are stuck.

Not All Online Proofreading Courses Are Created Equal!

Some proofreading courses focus heavily on the “theory” of proofreading but include very little practice. What’s the point in knowing how to do the work if you have no idea how to get the work?

The best online proofreading courses teach you:

• Common proofreading strategies
• How to ask for feedback from proofreading clients
• How to ask for referrals
• How to organize your business (including taxes)
• How to set up your freelance website and social media for maximum exposure
• How to network with potential proofreading clients

There’s so much more to becoming a proofreader than just proofreading services.

Learning how to market your services and communicate with your clients effectively is paramount. The best proofreading courses include step-by-step instructions for everything you need to do — including how to register a domain name and craft each page of your website.

How to Choose a Proofreading Course for You

Of course, any online proofreading course can claim to be the best. You need to do thorough research and ask questions to ensure you’re choosing the best course.

Here are some questions to ask to help you choose a proofreading course:

• Does the proofreading course offer the proofreading skills needed for a successful career?  If an online course suggests that you can finish the coursework within a few days, then the course is not comprehensive enough. You should learn more than the basics of proofreading if you want to be successful.
• Does the course offer how-to information relating to business and marketing? While most proofreading courses cover how to become a proofreader, learning to think like a business person is an entirely different set of skills. Make sure the course you choose offers regularly updated information on business setup, accounting/taxes, and marketing.
• Does the proofreading course include access to a student community? Working alongside fellow students can dramatically improve your course experience. Online proofreading classes can be difficult, so having support can really help.

The best proofreading courses also cover how to work with various software and style guides that your clients may use. The more clients you take on, the more likely it is that you’ll need to use different tools. You can receive proofreading work in Microsoft Word, another in Google Docs, and still another in PDF format.

Not tech-savvy? No worries! If you choose a proofreading course with a community component, you can easily find help from a fellow student or support staff.

How To Join a Course

You can join our General Proofreading: Theory and Practice course or you can specialize with the Transcript Proofreading course . Proofread Anywhere also offers an intro course for those who aren’t sure if proofreading is right for them.

Since 2014, Proofread Anywhere has offered the best online proofreading courses — courses that cover it all: proofreading techniques, practice, business setup, accounting, marketing, and even mastering your mindset as a freelancer.

With our lifetime support, lifetime access, all updates at no additional cost, hand-graded exams, and an incredible student community, you’ve got a recipe for success that grows right along with you.

With our holistic approach to becoming a proofreader, we guarantee you won’t find a better course anywhere else!

Grab a seat in our free online workshop to get started now.

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10 Accredited Proofreading Courses Online

Do you want to make money through proofreading? Looking for accredited proofreading courses online to kickstart your career as a professional proofreader? If yes, you are in the right place. You can work from home as a proofreader and start you own business. You’ll be surprised at how many different areas proof reading is needed!

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Online proofreading is an excellent way to make money from home . However, to get started on the right foot and maximize your earnings, it’s highly recommended to enroll in a proofreading course and get certified.

That said, not every online proofreading course is worth your commitment and money. You need to find a credible and recognized course.

This article reveals 10 accredited proofreading courses online that you might try. Six of them are CPD-accredited; the rest (Proofread Anywhere, Udemy, Skillshare, and Proofread LaunchPad) are well-known and recommended by experts.

By the end, we hope you will find an accredited proofreading course that best suits your needs.

Don’t forget to also check out selection of the best proofreading courses .

1. General Proofreading Course by Proofread Anywhere

Caitlyn Pyle founded Proofread Anywhere. She has created two proofreading courses (general and transcript) and six ebooks, including The Comma BootCamp Workbook .

Her general proofreading course is divided into nine modules. They are:

• Introduction To General Proofreading
• Proofreading Basics
• Intermediate Proofreading
• Proofreading Methods And Practice
• Turning Proofreading Into A Business
• Marketing Your Proofreading Business
• Advanced Proofreading Techniques
• Working With Specific Types Of Content

The course features video lessons, written material, and practical lessons. You will also join a private Facebook group to ask questions and interact with fellow students.

The General Proofreading: Theory & Practice TM course comprises two levels (Ignite and Ignite Plus). The Ignite plan sells for $697, and the Ignite Plus costs $797. Both programs give you lifetime access to the course.

You can also take the Transcript Proofreading, which costs $1174.

If you’re interested in Proofread Anywhere, I recommend starting with their FREE proofreading workshop to see if it suits you.

2. Becoming a Proofreader by Knowadays

Becoming a Proofreader is a beginner-friendly, self-paced, and CPD-accredited proofreading course.

The course is best suited for those who want to start a career in proofreading, work from home, or work on rewarding jobs that require expertise.

The course fee is $499 and takes 4 to 5 weeks at 5 hours a week to complete. You must attain a score of at least 80% on the course’s final exam to be allowed to trial with their partner company, Proofread .

The course comprises 13 modules, over 66 lessons, and dozens of practice-based exercises.

Below is what you will learn:

• Module 1: An Overview Of Becoming An Online Proofreader
• Module 2: Proofreading And Editing
• Module 3: The Basics Of Microsoft Word
• Module 4: Common Spelling Mistakes
• Module 5: Common Grammar Mistakes
• Module 6: Common Punctuation Mistakes
• Module 7: Other Common Errors
• Module 8: Proofreading In Practice: Style
• Module 9: Academic Proofreading
• Module 10: Academic Proofreading: Referencing And Citations
• Module 11: The Creative Writing And Publishing Sector
• Module 12: Proofreading Business Writing
• Module 13:Finding Work And The Final Assignment

3. Proofreading and Editing Diploma Course by the Centre of Excellence

The proofreading and editing diploma course costs £127.00 for lifetime access. Alternatively, you can pay a £9.99 deposit plus six monthly payments of £19.50.

This 150-hour-long course will significantly benefit someone looking to start a career in proofreading or a writer hoping to self-publish.

Upon completion, you will receive two certificates: one from the Centre of Excellence and a CPD certificate showing the number of CPD points you’ve earned from the course. You may also pay an extra £25 for a certificate of achievement from the quality license scheme.

Below is the course outline.

• Module 1: Define Editing
• Module 2: Copy Editing Vs. Proofreading
• Module 3: Elements Of Copy Editing, Such As Tables And Figures
• Module 4: Applying Style
• Module 5: How To Proofread
• Module 6: Rules And Errors In Spelling
• Module 7: Common Grammar Mistakes
• Module 8: Language
• Module 9: The Final Proof
• Module 10: Working As A Proofreader Or An Editor

4. Proofreading: A Must for Newbie Writers by Study Plex

These CPD UK IPHM-accredited proofreading courses sell for £19.99 (originally £125.000) for lifetime access.

The beginner course will benefit anyone who wants to boost their career profile or advance their career in the proofreading industry.

The course is 1 hour and 21 minutes long. After completing the modules, you must answer multiple-choice questions (MCQs) to complete the assessment procedure.

The MCQs estimate how much you have learned from each section. The pass mark for the assessment is 60%.

What will you learn from this course?

• Gain Comprehensive Knowledge About Proofreading.
• Understand The Essential Skills And Principles Of Proofreading.
• Explore The Various Areas Of Proofreading.
• Know How To Use The Skills You Learn From The Course In Real-Life Scenarios.
• Become A Confident And Expert Proofreader.

5. Proofreading Course for Beginners: Lead Academy

The course is currently priced at £25 (originally £125). Alternatively, you can pay four interest-free payments of £6.25.

The 2-hour interactive video training course aims to help learners gain the essential skills required to become proficient proofreaders.

This entry-level course is ideal for those looking to improve their job prospects, accelerate their career, and gain an in-depth understanding of proofreading.

The course outline comprises:

• Introduction To The Proofreading Process
• Recognize The Importance Of Proofreading Any Document.
• Learn About Prerequisites, Exercises, And Resources.
• Understand Why You Must Self-Edit Your Book.
• Know The Mystery Of Editing
• Learn About Manuscript Evaluation And Developmental Editing.
• Get To Know About Content, Line-By-Line Editing, And Copy Editing.
• Recognizing What Edit You Need And Learning To Calculate Its Price
• Learn The Steps For Reviewing Your Work.
• Know How To Recruit A Professional Editor.

6. Proofreading and Copyediting by One Education

The course fee for individuals is £29.00 (ex VAT), which gives you one-year access.

Request a quote if you wish to buy the course for a team. The course takes about two weeks and four days to complete.

To begin learning, you must take an automated multiple-choice exam. The exam’s pass mark of 60% will also qualify you for a quality license scheme license-endorsed certification. However, if you fail, you must retake the exam for £3.99.

At the end of the course, you may pay £9 for a CPD QS-accredited certificate from One Education in PDF format. Alternatively, you may request a hard copy via post for £15.

The course outline is as follows:

• Module 1: Proofreading Basics
• Module 2: Applying The Style Guide
• Module 3: Spelling And Grammar
• Module 4: Proofreading On Paper
• Module 5: Proofreading On-Screen
• Module 6: Copy-Editing Basics
• Module 7: Copy-Editing: The Use Of Language
• Module 8: Copy-Editing: Checking Accuracy And Facts
• Module 9: Copy-Editing: The Start And The Finish
• Module 10: Copy-Editing: Legal Checks
• Module 11: Finding Work And Developing Your Career

7. Proofreading Basics Certificate by New Skills Academy

The course takes 0.75 hours, making it the shortest course on our list of accredited proofreading courses online. You will need to pay £20.00 for lifetime access to the class.

This CPD-accredited proofreading course comprises text-based modules, images, and video learning. Upon completion, you will receive a certificate and access to the exclusive New Skills Academy Study Group.

Here is what you will learn:

• The Importance Of Proofreading
• How To Identify Common Spelling Mistakes
• How To Identify Common Grammatical Mistakes
• The Importance Of Proofreading For Punctuation Mistakes
• Programs To Help Find Mistakes

8. Proofread Like a Pro by Udemy

Besides a solid grasp of English and a computer, you need a printer to complete the course successfully.

The course is currently selling for $14.99 (a 79% discount from the original price of $69.99).

The Proofread Like A Pro course has six sections and eight lectures, comprising 1.5 hours of on-demand videos, 21 articles, 23 downloadable resources, and a certificate of completion.

Below is what Clare Lynch, the instructor, Cambridge University writing tutor, and professional copywriter, will teach you:

• Introduction To Proofreading
• Proofreading Symbols
• What To Look For When Proofreading Text
• Proofreading Components Other Than Body Text
• Working As A Proofreader
• Final Thoughts (Additional Proofreading Exercises)

9. Editing and Proofreading Masterclass by Skillshare

Get a chance to learn from Nitay L, an English and Hebrew translator, proofreader, and transcriptionist at Upwork, through this proofreading course.

The course fee is $2 monthly or $12 yearly. They also have a one-month free trial. Graduates love the course for its helpful examples, class organization, and instruction clarity.

This beginner proofreading course comprises 64 lessons, totaling 3 hours and 8 minutes. The course outline includes:

• Niches and Jobs As A Proofreader
• Universal Proofreading Symbols
• Proofreading With Microsoft
• Tips for Proofreading Better
• Proofread Translation With 3 Essential Methods
• Spot Common Grammar, Punctuation, and Language Errors.
• Clarify Text, Fix Poor Syntax, and Correct Punctuation.
• Guides To Applying For Proofreading Jobs On Online Job Platforms Such As Upwork

10. Proofreading LaunchPad by Millenial Money Man

The last on our list of accredited proofreading courses online is Millennial Money Man’s Proofreading Launchpad . 

Review their Proofreading Clarity free e-book if you are unsure whether the course is ideal for you. The e-book is filled with excellent tips on succeeding as an online proofreader.

The Proofreading Launchpad online course features 10 learning modules, 76 concise video lessons, a proofreader’s toolkit, an invoice template, and a cheat sheet.

You will also get 6 months of free access to the Proofreading Launchpad membership community, which is full of expert proofreaders and editors. 

While the course’s lessons take almost 15 hours, most learners complete the class in 2  weeks. The Proofreading Launchpad course is worth $597 and will teach you:

• Punctuation
• Client Acquisition
• Building Your Proofreading Business
• Getting Into the Freelance Flow

Explore these Accredited Proofreading Courses Online

Now that you know about these proofreading courses, choosing which one suits you best is up to you.

Do you need a beginner-level course or one that will help improve your proofreading skills? 

When selecting the best proofreading course online, lifetime access, support, and training methods are other factors to consider.

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9 Best Proofreading Courses You Can Do Online

April 2, 2024

Written by:

Jessica Norris

Jessica is a writer for SideHustles.com. Her side hustles include freelance academic writing and editing, which she's done for...

Time Required

If you’re thinking of becoming a proofreader, you might be wondering about training and education. If you search online, you’ll see a lot of courses for aspiring proofreaders—some of which cost money and some of which are free.

The question is, which ones are worth your time and money? Read on to learn about nine of the best places to find proofreading courses, plus some general-purpose editing courses that will also teach you skills you’ll need for proofreading.

01. Proofread Anywhere

Proofread Anywhere offers online courses and workshops for people who want to become freelance proofreaders.

Proofread Anywhere has a general proofreading course made up of 13 modules, covering many aspects of freelance proofreading—from spelling and grammar to finding clients and billing them for your services.

It’s completely online and it’s self-paced, so you can take as long as you want to complete it. Their website says that students have been known to finish the course in as little as a month, but that it depends on how much time you can dedicate to it.

The Proofread Anywhere course costs $397–$497 . $397 gets you lifetime access to the course materials. The $497 option also includes graded exams and membership in a private Facebook group.

If you’re not sure whether you want to take the full course, there are free introductory materials on the website you can try to help you decide. These include a free workshop. According to some reports, if you watch the workshop in full, you’ll be offered a $100 discount voucher that you can use for one of the Proofread Anywhere courses.

02. Knowadays

Knowadays , formerly known as Proofreading Academy, is a company that’s based in the UK. However, they serve English-speaking clients all over the world and they have courses in both British and American English (as well as Australian English).

The advantage of Knowadays is that it gives you the opportunity to find work when you’ve finished the course. If you pass the final assignment with a high enough score, they’ll let you start working on a trial basis with their partner company, Proofed.

Like Proofread Anywhere, the Knowadays course has 13 modules and covers not only the grammar and language skills you need for proofreading itself but also the practical skills and knowledge that freelancing requires.

The Knowadays proofreading course costs $399 (and there’s also an editing course for $499). You can do a free trial to help you decide whether it’s suitable for you.

03. Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP)

The Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading or CIEP (formerly known as the Society for Editors and Proofreaders or SfEP) is a nonprofit professional organization based in the UK for editors and proofreaders. It has three different proofreading courses for beginner, intermediate, and advanced skill levels.

CIEP courses are very well-regarded in the publishing industry. The caveat is that they use British English, so if you’re based in the US, you’ll have to make allowances for British punctuation and spelling.

The course fees depend on whether you’ve paid for a CIEP membership . The table below shows a breakdown of the costs:

Membership costs £126 (equivalent to around $154) for entry-level or intermediate-level membership or £189 for professional-level membership (which comes with additional benefits but is designed for editors and proofreaders with substantial experience).

04. The Publishing Training Centre (PTC)

The PTC is another UK-based nonprofit organization for editorial professionals. It offers online and self-study courses for the publishing industry and the wider business world. Like the CIEP courses, these are very well-regarded.

PTC courses include:

• Introduction to Proofreading : This is a short course that can be completed fairly quickly and costs only £30 (approximately $37 ).
• Essential Proofreading: Editorial Skills One : This course is more comprehensive than the introduction. It includes several modules and usually takes more than 50 hours to complete. It’s also more expensive at £405 (approximately $496 ).
• Introduction to Editorial Skills: Copy-Editing and Proofreading : This isn’t a self-study course, but rather an online classroom course that you do on Zoom. It takes place over 1–3 days (the dates are prescheduled). The course normally costs £720 (approximately $888 ), although you may sometimes be able to find special offers and there are also discounts for freelancers.

As well as proofreading courses, the Publishing Training Centre has copyediting courses and other courses that are meant for editorial professionals .

How to sign up:  You’ll find an “enroll” button for each course on the pages linked above.

05. Emerson College

Emerson College offers an online course called Precision Proofreading that takes about 7 hours to complete. You can choose to do this course on its own if you want to focus exclusively on proofreading, or you can do it as part of the Emerson College Certificate in Copyediting .

To get the full certificate, you have to complete nine different courses online. Altogether, this takes about 45.5 hours.

The 7-hour proofreading course from Emerson College costs $250 . Getting the full copyediting certificate costs $1,625 (as of the fall semester, 2022).

How to sign up:  You’ll find an “enroll” button for the course on the page linked above. If enrollment is currently closed, click the “ Request Information”  button; you can submit a request for the university to notify you once the course opens again.

06. Temple University

Temple University offers an online proofreading course, Proofreading Like a Pro . You can do it in isolation or as part of their Certificate in Editing and Business Writing .

In isolation, the course takes about 4 hours to complete (two 2-hour sessions). If you go for the full certificate, there are four courses to complete, plus a few online meetings.

Temple University’s basic proofreading course costs $249 . Their full editing and writing certificate costs $995 in total. Your access to the courses will never expire, so you can take them any time you want.

07. Skillshare

Skillshare is a site that gives you access to thousands of classes on many different subjects, from photography to social media entrepreneurship.

Skillshare has many courses related to proofreading. Examples include:

• Kickstart Your Freelance Editor & Proofreader Career on Upwork
• How to Find and Correct Writing Errors: The Proofreading Guide

A Skillshare membership costs $165 per year and gets you access to any and all courses that you want to take.

If you’re not sure whether you want to commit to paying Skillshare’s yearly fee, you can sign up for a free one-month trial. Depending on how much free time you have, this might actually be long enough for you to complete several classes on the platform before you have to start paying for your subscription.

How to sign up:  If you have a Skillshare account, you can sign up on the page for each proofreading course.

Udemy is an online learning marketplace that has courses on almost any topic you can think of. Some of the courses are paid and some are free.

Udemy’s proofreading courses include:

• Proofread like a Pro (despite the similar name, this is different than the course from Temple University)
• Proofreading to Perfection

The downside of Udemy is that anyone can create courses for the platform, so there’s less quality control than you’ll find with other providers.

The cost of Udemy courses varies widely. As mentioned, some are free, but finding free, high-quality ones will require some digging.

The ones listed above range from around $80 to $120 , but they have frequent sales that sometimes slash their prices by up to 80%.

How to sign up:  To register, sign up for a Udemy account and then click “ Buy now” on the page for the course you want.

09. New York University

New York University offers a qualification called the Certificate in Professional Copyediting, Proofreading, and Fact-Checking . This includes an online course on editing and proofreading books , which you can also do on its own if you don’t want to go for the entire certificate.

This course has fixed start and end dates, so it’s less flexible than some of the alternatives out there. The basic editing course runs for about two months; if you opt for the full certificate program, you have to complete it within three years.

If you just want to take the course on editing and proofreading books, it will cost $949 . The cost of the full certificate is much higher at $6,192 .

How to sign up:  Click “ Add to Cart “on the pages linked above, then “ Go to Cart ” to finish enrolling..

10. Other editing and copyediting courses

In addition to proofreading courses, there are also many courses that focus on editing, which requires a slightly different skill set than proofreading. Proofreading consists of a final review of a text before it’s published and involves relatively small changes, whereas editing is carried out earlier in the process and usually involves more extensive changes.

There’s a significant degree of overlap between editing and proofreading, and many proofreaders also offer editing services. This means that editing courses are extremely useful for aspiring proofreaders (and vice versa).

University editing courses

Several respected colleges and universities offer editing courses:

• University of Chicago, Professional Development Editing Certificate : From the birthplace of the Chicago Manual of Style, this course teaches you the skills you need to enter the publishing industry or advance your editing career. The duration is 9–24 months (part-time), depending on your preferred study pace. One consideration is that, at $6,500, this is one of the most expensive courses we’ve seen.
• UC San Diego, Copyediting Certificate Program : This is another university certificate in copyediting you can do online. It’s a 12-month program and less flexible than many of the others we’ve listed, as you have to keep up with weekly assignments. The estimated cost to get the certificate is around $2,950 in total (including course fees and books).
• University of Washington, Certificate in Editing : This certificate costs $3,585 for three courses. It’s quite flexible, as you can take it online or through a blend of online and classroom learning (if you live in Seattle). If you choose the online option, it will take around two years to complete.
• UC Berkeley, Professional Sequence in Editing : This is a set of four courses that cost $850 each, so it’s $3,400 for the set. Most students complete the whole sequence (which includes 120 hours of classes) in one and a half years. However, note that you won’t earn a certificate by doing this.

Other worthwhile courses

You can also look into courses offered by the following organizations:

• The Editorial Freelancers Association : This organization for editorial professionals offers a number of high-quality editing courses—some self-paced and some with weekly deadlines—at relatively affordable prices (around $190–$400). They also sometimes offer online proofreading courses and webinars.
• ACES: The Society for Editing : This organization offers courses and educational resources for editors. They have a catalog called the ACES Academy that features editing webcasts, and they also offer a couple of editing certificates in collaboration with the Poynter Institute for Media Studies (a non-profit school for journalism). Their webcasts usually cost $30 for non-members (nothing for members), and their certificates cost $99–$150.
• Coursera : This site has learning materials from various universities and companies. Many courses are free to access, although you’ll often have to pay to get a certificate or do graded assignments. Few of their courses focus specifically on proofreading, but the site still has resources that you might find helpful. For example, check out the courses Writing for Business , Good with Words , and Academic English: Writing Specialization .

11. Is it necessary to have formal qualifications to be a proofreader?

No, you don’t need any specific qualifications or training to be a proofreader. One of the advantages of professional proofreading is that clients will often be more interested in your professional portfolio, your resume, and how well you do in tests they set you than in your credentials.

Kate Lescano, a proofreader who has four years of experience, agrees that “Clients tend to prioritize your actual samples, efficiency, and word-of-mouth referrals over certifications or qualifications.”

How are certificates and training useful for proofreaders?

Although formal qualifications aren’t necessary, that doesn’t mean they’re a waste of time.

We spoke to many proofreading and editing experts who had undergone training. They recommended it as a way to:

• Show clients and employers that you’re committed
• Improve and update your skills

For example, one member of the Bay Area Editors’ Forum (BAEF), Kirsten Janene-Nelson, worked with a small literary press for over a decade before moving into freelance editing and proofreading.

Kirsten told us, “When I was heading into freelancing after years in-house, I consulted a colleague and asked whether I should include on my résumé the classes I’d taken … He said to take even more classes so as to ensure my skills were fresh and to demonstrate that I was dedicated to my profession.”

Another BAEF member, Erin Noble, who has been a freelance proofreader and copyeditor for about twenty years, explained how a lack of relevant training could leave a deficit in your proofreading skills. “While I have degrees in English and often know when something is wrong, it’s frustrating to not always be able to back it up with a rule or a citation,” she said.

This drives home the point that training isn’t just about getting hired—it’s also about ensuring you have the right skills to excel once you do.

How do you become a certified proofreader?

There’s technically no such thing as a “certified proofreader” in the United States. The US doesn’t have a single, universally accepted proofreading certification (although individual universities and editing organizations offer their own certifications).

When people refer to certified proofreaders, they’re usually talking about the proofreading industry in Canada. There’s a Canadian editorial association called Editors Canada that offers a certified proofreader exam.

It costs $550 to take the proofreading exam if you’re not a member of their association. Rumor has it that the exam is difficult, and you should only do it if you have extensive experience in the field.

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