The Complete Writer is unique because you are taught by example, not through dry theory. We believe that academic jargon is useless to aspiring writers so we give you some of the best writing in the English language and show how you can improve your style through observing others' work. Through exercises and carefully graduated assignments you are then able to build on this experience as your relationship with your tutor grows throughout the course.
Creative writing and the improvement of your style and technique is at the core of The Complete Writer. Our aim is to unlock your literary ability so that you can become a published writer able to write for magazines and journals and, if you wish, produce full-length novels. We also show how serious writers can supplement their income by writing factual pieces for magazines. Throughout the course the emphasis is on the improvement of your writing whether for publication, pleasure or generally to enhance your communication skills.
Whether your strength is humour, crime, spy fiction, romance, children's fiction, autobiography or short stories we can help you on your way. General modules on such areas as description, dialogue and characterisation are enriched by copious examples from contemporary and classic authors. Specific genres are covered in depth and you are shown how other authors have mastered their crafts.
The mechanics of writing are covered in great detail with expert modules on grammar, punctuation, style, language and common pitfalls. But even these subjects are brought to life with stimulating examples and exercises to help you every step of the way. Punctuation and grammar are part of the creative process and not an obstacle to it. These skills are increasingly important in all areas of the workplace and will be of great value to all employees who have to use the written word.
The whole business of publishing and getting published is treated comprehensively in separate modules.
The law, the internet, copyright, libel, publishing contracts, agents, negotiation, self-publishing, vanity presses, dealing with magazines - nothing is left to chance - all these areas and many more are covered in detailed modules. The course is very practical and highly vocational, as well as being great fun!
You will never be short of work on The Complete Writer Course!
Numerous exercises and assignments on all aspects of the course are provided. These may form the basis of work you wish to publish, so your tutors may be advising you on material you are submitting to publishers - a very valuable service! Your tutor will take a careful interest in you and your ambitions as a writer. You may contact your tutor at any time during and, indeed, after the course.
Our tutors will always offer constructive advice. The best aspects of your work will be highlighted and encouraged. Weaknesses - if any - will be gently helped. You may have difficulty with dialogue or description, your plotting may need improvement or your characterisation may be sketchy; tutors will never intrude on your creativity, but will help you through areas you find difficult through example and encouragement. And if you disagree you will say so! The dialogue should be stimulating and creative.
Tutors have been carefully selected and include experienced publishers and writers. A good relationship with your tutors is the key to your success on The Complete Writer, and we are committed to providing the best quality service available.
Many students aim for publication. Thousands of publishers in the UK and overseas need new writers in all fields. Some students will want part-time work, publishing a few short stories for magazines each year, others will want full-time careers as novelists, journalists or biographers. Some may use their skills to help them find jobs in publishing, industry, newspapers or magazines.
The course is brimming with practical advice on getting published. We know the market. We understand publishers' needs and can help you to present your work to give you the best possible chance of success.
Tutors may spot a particular talent and recommend publishers to you. With your tutor's help you may gear your work for a particular market or even a specific magazine. We want you to succeed - we all like a little reflected glory!
The course is over 180,000 words long and professionally presented. You post your assignments to your tutor and on completion of the course, you will receive a Certificate of Completion signed by your tutor and a director.