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Good with Words: Writing and Editing Specialization
Writing. Editing. Persuasion. Learn the mechanics and strategy of effective communication.
Instructor: Patrick Barry
Financial aid available
76,533 already enrolled
(2,020 reviews)
Recommended experience
Beginner level
No previous experience needed
What you'll learn
Creative ways to use syntax
Techniques for adding nuance to your sentences and slogans
Tips to help you punctuate and paragraph like a professional
Habits needed to complete both short-term and long-term projects
Skills you'll gain
- Time management
Details to know
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Specialization - 4 course series
Perhaps the most important thing students and professionals of all kinds can do to improve their effectiveness is embrace the following advice: become good with words.
This series of courses targets the writing side of that recommendation. The skills it focuses on include everything from how to arrange a complex set of information in a reader-friendly way, to how to give and receive high-quality feedback, to how to consistently hit deadlines.
Part of Professor Barry’s proceeds from this course will be donated to the COVID-19 relief efforts of Ozone House Opens in a new tab , a shelter for homeless youth in Southeastern Michigan where he regularly conducts job-training workshops. These proceeds come from purchases of the version of the course that earns you a certificate. The course remains free for anyone who is simply auditing.
Writing and Editing: Word Choice and Word Order
Learn how the words you choose can change the decisions people make
Use syntax strategically
Write with originality and produce sentences that nobody else can write
Arrange a complex set of information in a reader-friendly way
Writing and Editing: Structure and Organization
Learn how structure can be used to generate content
Place corresponding ideas in corresponding forms
Add nuance to your writing by using anadiplosis
Identify and assess when to use sentences with varying lengths
Writing and Editing: Drafting
Understand and reflect on the cost of perfectionism in writing
Conduct a “pre-mortem” before starting a writing draft
Identify summaries and scenes
Apply the “nothing else” and “need to know” principles
Writing and Editing: Revising
Learn how to become a better reader of your own writing
Apply the E-D-I-T framework
Identify uselessly accurate information
Create multiple ways to communicate the same data
The mission of the University of Michigan is to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values, and in developing leaders and citizens who will challenge the present and enrich the future.
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Frequently asked questions
Is this course really 100% online do i need to attend any classes in person.
This course is completely online, so there’s no need to show up to a classroom in person. You can access your lectures, readings and assignments anytime and anywhere via the web or your mobile device.
What is the refund policy?
If you subscribed, you get a 7-day free trial during which you can cancel at no penalty. After that, we don’t give refunds, but you can cancel your subscription at any time. See our full refund policy Opens in a new tab .
Can I just enroll in a single course?
Yes! To get started, click the course card that interests you and enroll. You can enroll and complete the course to earn a shareable certificate, or you can audit it to view the course materials for free. When you subscribe to a course that is part of a Specialization, you’re automatically subscribed to the full Specialization. Visit your learner dashboard to track your progress.
Is financial aid available?
Yes. In select learning programs, you can apply for financial aid or a scholarship if you can’t afford the enrollment fee. If fin aid or scholarship is available for your learning program selection, you’ll find a link to apply on the description page.
Can I take the course for free?
When you enroll in the course, you get access to all of the courses in the Specialization, and you earn a certificate when you complete the work. If you only want to read and view the course content, you can audit the course for free. If you cannot afford the fee, you can apply for financial aid Opens in a new tab .
Will I earn university credit for completing the Specialization?
This Specialization doesn't carry university credit, but some universities may choose to accept Specialization Certificates for credit. Check with your institution to learn more.
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This series of courses targets the writing side of that recommendation. The skills it focuses on include everything from how to arrange a complex set of information in a reader-friendly way, to how to give and receive high-quality feedback, to how to consistently hit deadlines.