Format
During our writing workshops, the expert trainer introduces each topic in a PowerPoint presentation with practical examples based on sample sentences excerpted from the participants’ writing samples. Then the participants turn to the handouts, which contain extensive exercises, approximately 90% of which are taken from the pre-workshop writing samples. The participants work in pairs or small groups to apply the techniques they have just learned to improve individual sentences, sharing their revisions with the entire group. Once everyone is comfortable with the material, the trainer moves on to the next topic.
Topics are selected based on the trainer’s analysis of the pre-workshop writing samples and discussions with the client. All materials are customized to address the errors and weaknesses found in the participants’ pre-workshop writing samples.
Duration
Typical workshops range from a single half- or full-day session to a series of shorter workshops spread over a week or month. For example, a workshop comprising two four-hour sessions might cover the following topics.
Day 1: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
- 9:00-9:15
Introductions & workshop overview - 9:15-10:45
Recognize the characteristics of effective business writing
Cut the clutter (avoid unnecessary words) - 10:45-11:00
Break - 11:00-12:30
Focus on verbs
Use active voice (avoid passive voice)
Avoid expletive constructions (it is/was, there is/was)
Select specific verbs (minimize reliance on “to be”) - 12:30-1:00
Group exercise, questions & homework assignment
Day 2: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
- 9:00-9:15
Review homework - 9:15-10:45
Seek parallel structure
Place subjects near verbs
Check for subject/verb/pronoun agreement - 10:45-11:00
Break - 11:00-12:30
Write positively (avoid “not”)
Master punctuation & capitalization - 12:30-1:00
Group exercise, questions & evaluation
Jessica is a detail-oriented copyeditor who provides valuable insight on marketing/branding materials. She also offers a very rapid turnaround time. – A. Abolmasov, venture capital & private equity manager, Russia
I thought the business writing workshop was very useful. [Jessica] made it very practical and gave us four clear ways that we can already put in practice to improve our writing. If there is another workshop, I would attend again. Thank you very much for setting this up!” – MBA Student, Willamette University
Jessica suggested ways for us to improve our business documents while correcting the grammar and syntax of our writing. She is a reliable, professional editor and I have enjoyed working with her. – V. Nielsen, telecommunications, Denmark
Apicality Communication 