MS Word for Editors Workshop

Spring session: Saturday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. April 12, 2008

> Syllabus (Note: not yet finalized for spring session)
> Enroll in the workshop
> Editing Certificate information
> MS Word Self-Quiz 

Effective immediately, Word 2007 will be the software taught for this workshop. If you are a Word 2003 (or earlier) user, please note that the lessons still apply to these older versions. The biggest difference between 2007 and 2003 is the interface (look and feel). Email me if you have questions about this.

About the Workshop

I receive extensive feedback from editors in the field on what they need to know to effectively work in Microsoft Word. I also keep tabs on "expert" analysis, news, and more.

As a result of this research, the "Microsoft Word for Editors" course is a one-day, comprehensive workshop on what editors need to know.

The course includes a supplemental workbook with in-class activities, tips, references and other information, with plenty of practical exercises. This workbook is provided to students the day of the workshop. The class works through it together, but there are also opportunities to practice at your personal comfort level.

This workshop is NOT recommended for those who don't have prior experience with MS Word or who are not familiar with computers. While a quick "workspace" lesson starts the day, you must already be familiar with Word's structure, and how to navigate Word using the mouse (including the "right click" button). If you think you need to prep, I recommend Microsoft Office Word 2003 for Windows (see sidebar at right).

I make a habit of demonstrating first, then letting you practice. I do my very best to circulate the room to answer individual questions. I also have a T.A. who will help in the lab.

Please email me if you have questions about whether this workshop is right for you: niquettek@comcast.net.

MY FAVORITE WORD RESOURCES

Web sites

The Editorium  Jack Lyon knows his stuff, and his site largely speaks to editors. My first resource when I have a tricky question. He publishes an outstanding e-newsletter.

Microsoft Office  This Microsoft Web site is invaluable. It offers several free training courses. You can customize the site to your version of Word (and other MS programs).

Books

Microsoft Office Word 2003 for Windows  Good for the beginner to intermediate Word user. I especially like how this book outlines the software's structure.

Word 2003: Top 100 Simplified Tips & Tricks  Relevant, timesaving lessons, from how to create a macro to creating a table of contents.

Making Word Work for You  A new spiral-bound, 80-page guide (also in PDF) provides short, simple lessons for editors who use Word software. Purchase through the Editorial Freelancers Association. The author, Hilary Powers, is a freelance editor herself.

Word 2007 For Starters: The Missing Manual  This is for newcomers and veterans, covering the newest version. If you want to get even deeper, try Word 2007: The Missing Manual

Effective Onscreen Editing  This 700+ page PDF gets two thumbs up. The author is Geoff Hart, who is an editor and mentor of editors.