Sub-editing Essentials: Build Your Copy-Editing Skills 

Learn the fundamentals of sub-editing – from proof-reading and checking for accuracy to writing headlines  

This four-hour sub-editing training session will give you a solid understanding of the art of subbing, from spotting common errors to crafting enticing headlines.  

What you’ll learn: Importance of copy flow, subbing in practice, headline writing and SEO

In a world of ‘alternative facts’ and fake news, we need sub-editors and proof-readers more than ever. As online editors race to publish breaking news quickly, it’s vital that speed doesn’t mean sacrificing accuracy.   

You’ll learn the fundamentals of sub-editing, from spotting common spelling and grammar errors to the punctuation pitfalls that can derail writers under pressure, before delving into the world of digital publishing, and the best practices for online writing and editing – including how to craft brilliant headlines.    

This essential sub-editing training will teach you how to turn complicated copy into a straightforward – yet still intriguing – story, and you’ll put all of your newfound skills into practice with practical exercises.  

How you’ll learn

Your course will be led by an experienced editor and trainer who will share their practical expertise through presentations, discussion and practical exercises – ensuring you have opportunities to reinforce your learning and test your understanding.  

Who the sub-editing training course is for  

This subbing essentials course is for people with writing experience who want to level up their sub-editing skills and knowledge. It’s perfect for a reporter or writer who self-publishes and/or is looking to move into a subbing or editor role. If you’re looking for more support with writing skills, you might like our News Writing Fundamentals courses.

We currently offer this course as bespoke training for teams and can deliver it remotely, or in your offices. Get in touch using the button below to discuss times and dates, as well as how we can tailor it to your needs. 

If you’re booking for yourself, find all of our scheduled courses here

Course Modules

Subbing Fundamentals

  1. Why sub-editing and proof-reading matter  
  2. The basics  
  3. The importance of copy flow  
  4. Using plain English 
  5. Practise correcting errors 

Subbing in Practice

  1. House style and style guides 
  2. Tone of voice
  3. Digital headline writing
  4. Headline writing and SEO  
  5. Headline writing for your audience
advanced feature writing course - tutor with student

Sub-editing Essentials: Build Your Copy-Editing Skills 

Learn the fundamentals of sub-editing – from proof-reading and checking for accuracy to writing headlines  

Get in touch

What our students say

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I made amazing friends, amazing memories and now it has led me to an amazing job which I never would have gotten without my time at Press Association.  

Holly Bishop
, Digital Reporter
, GB News

I was able to count on excellent teachers and professionals who helped me push my limits and achieve my goals. I was impressed by the quality of the course and the motivation teachers put into it. It was a great experience and I would definitely do it again!

Laure Poncet
, Research Officer
, ARC Centre of Excellence for Climate Extremes

The training scenarios are as real to life as you could possibly get. They took considerable time to research our current plans and issues and used these to design a series of true to life radio and TV interviews. The team is outstanding, and their expertise and knowledge has been invaluable. Book them – you’ll be glad you did.

NHS Vale of York Clinical Commissioning Group
, Communications Manager

I learned to write concise articles and features, while developing my skills in social media, interviewing sources, and producing stories for an increasingly online audience. The course has allowed me to start a full-time journalism career.

Jonathan Moynihan
, Social Media Producer
, Forces News

My time at PA Training was a whirlwind of fun and excitement. The full-time NCTJ course in London is fast-paced and hard work but perfectly sets you up for what to expect in a reporter role.

Camilla Foster
, Reporter
, Newsquest

Being equipped with an NCTJ Diploma does massive favours for your future, and the skills the course taught me are ones I lean on every single day. The simple fact is, I wouldn’t be where I am without that course. 

Alex Barker
, Videographer & Presenter
, The Athletic

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