Writing skills: the basics - two day

Course summary

The way in which we express ourselves at work is vital to the organisations we represent. If you are unsure about the basic rules of writing, or missed out on them at school, this two day writing course will help increase your confidence and ability to write clear, well-structured English.

On the first day we will cover the nuts and bolts of writing: grammar, punctuation and spelling, and on the second day we will work on the process of planning, structuring and editing your work. We will focus on letters, email, and other everyday writing tasks.


Course outline

This course will serve as an excellent grounding for any future writing courses you may wish to take. Over the two days you will cover:

• the three rules for good writing at work
• when to use capital letters
• consistency: making sure your subjects and verbs agree
• parts of speech : the building blocks of grammar
• what makes a sentence?
• syntax: the right words in the right order
• keeping it simple: writing in plain English
• how to use paragraphs
• style and layout for letters and email
• punctuation guidelines
• rules for using apostrophes
• spelling tips
• proofreading and editing
• tailoring your writing for your audience
• clarifying your objectives
• planning and structuring your work
• how to achieve the 'right' tone
• top tips for good writing
• a personal action plan

You will be working individually, in pairs and in small groups on a range of exercises to strengthen both your confidence and accuracy. You will be invited to bring an example of your own writing to work on. There will be time for individual attention, and plenty of opportunity for discussion and practice. The course manual will provide a resource to help you carry on building your skills back in the workplace.

"An excellent course. The trainer brought up all those things I have struggled with." AB, Play England
"Excellent trainer - Great energy, incredibly sensitive and enjoyable. I looked forward to this course and am very satisfied." BL, English Courtyard Association
"The trainer was patient, understanding and fantastic!" CL, Ebony Sistren
"The course was funny and well presented. The trainer really knows her business. I would recommend this course to everyone." AB, London Borough of Harrow


Who is this course for?

The course is suitable for anyone who lacks confidence in writing, or who wants to brush up on their skills. We will be looking at the basic tools for everyday writing tasks at work, such as letters, emails and record-keeping.



What will this course help me do: learning outcomes?

This course will give you a good grounding in grammar, punctuation and spelling, and will help you identify your further training needs.