Course Description: Once an “ugly” first draft is finally written, it’s time to polish it for distribution. To help ensure acceptance by a publication, the goal is to offer the best possible product. When sharing with family, the goal is to retain interest. Genealogy Standards include twenty-three standards for writing, including the Genealogy Proof Standard’s fifth component, developing “a soundly reasoned, coherently written conclusion.” Whether submitting to an editor, a credentialling body, or family, self-editing is an essential part of the process.

Skill-Based Prerequisites for Attendees:

• 500-word writing sample to use throughout the course
• Completion of a short survey provided by instructor
• Passion for genealogical writing

Pre-Assignment: Submit a 500-word writing sample for use throughout the course.

Course Outline
(Subject to Change)

Session 1:

• Introductions
• Lecture: Self-editing the overall product
• In-Class Exercise
• Lecture: Determining audience: editors, credential, family
• Homework Assignment

Session 2:

• Lecture: Paragraph structure, content, and substance
• In-Class exercise
• Lecture: Paragraph organization and flow
• Homework Assignment

Session 3:

• Lecture: Grammar, punctuation, and citations
• In-Class exercise:
• Lecture: Sentence succinctness, simplicity, and readability
• Homework Assignment

Session 4:

• Lecture: Style guides, spelling, and capitalization
• In-Class exercise
• Lecture: Synonyms, simplicity; next steps