Copywriting for Publishers

Effective copy is the cornerstone of effective selling.

Yet in a busy working day, copywriting is often the task that gets squeezed into the time that’s left after everything else is done. And while every publisher loves words, copywriting is an art and a science we pick up over time – time we don’t have.

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) programs can help save time, but you still need to know the basic principles of copywriting so you know what good copy looks like and how it works.

This virtual course aims to shortcut the process of learning how to write copy and equip you with the skills you need to write more effective copy more quickly.

We’ll look at all the copywriting essentials, applying our learning as we go in a variety of practical exercises. We’ll also consider real-world matters, including how to request, give and receive feedback on copy.

Whatever you write and whatever your level of copywriting experience, this course will help you move up a level and harness the power of words with more confidence than ever before.

Who is it for?

Anyone working in publishing or in a related area who has to convey key messages through the written word. This includes:

  • copywriters
  • editorial assistants, assistant editors, editors
  • freelance publicists
  • marketing assistants, executives, managers
  • PR assistants, executives, managers
  • publicity assistants, executives, managers
  • web assistants, editors, managers.

What will you achieve?

On completing this course you’ll be able to:

  • write more effective copy across a range of different forms
  • complete copywriting tasks more quickly
  • feel more confident in your copywriting skills.

Programme

Day 1

  • What is copywriting? 
  • Developing a copywriter mindset 
  • The basics of good copy 
  • The basics of good writing 
  • Overcoming writer’s block 
  • Building better relationships 

  • When AI is useful – and when it isn’t 

Day 2

  • Blurbs 
  • Press releases 
  • Web copy 
  • Social media 
  • Newsletters 
  • Emails 

How the course is delivered

The course consists of 2 sessions, each lasting 3½ hours including a 30-minute break. Each session is a mixture of delivery and interaction using Zoom breakout rooms and other online tools. There will be 15-minute breaks between sessions with the opportunity to do exercises and take a break. The course will run on the same day across 2 weeks, split into 2 x ½-day sessions in the morning from 9.00am to 12.30pm.

You will need to activate a free Zoom account to join the course. This takes 2 minutes and does not require any payment. It is purely for administrative purposes.

Any information to be completed beforehand will be sent via email.

Accessibility

Please contact us at with any accessibility or special requirements, for example having in-session captions or the learning materials sent to you in advance.

If you have any concerns about technical requirements or access please contact us on or telephone +44 (0)20 8874 2718.

In-company training

This course is also available for in-company training, either virtually or in person at your office. Course content is tailored to suit your requirements. Group sizes range from 5 to 12 attendees. To find out more, email or telephone +44 (0)20 8874 2718.

What is included?

Certificate

Upon successfully completing the course you will receive a completion certificate from the PTC.

Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP) Points

Completing this course is worth 3 points towards upgrading your CIEP membership.

Delegate feedback

"A good mixture of theory and practical exercises, with opportunities for interaction with the teacher. I've gained insights and tools to help me with material I am presently working on." RICS delegate

"The course was really enjoyable. The 10-minute tasks were challenging, but helpful for building on each skill. The structures for building the base of my copy are beneficial for creating a framework for more compelling copy." Langham Publishing delegate

About the tutor(s)

catherine every

Catherine Every is a copywriter and writing skills trainer. 

She has over 20 years’ experience and has worked with more than 180 clients on over 7,500 projects. 

She began her career in publishing, including stints with Jessica Kingsley Publishers and Oxford University Press, before establishing her own copywriting business, Every Word Ltd, in 2012. 

Next session

17 & 19 March 2026

Price

£360 + VAT

A number of discounts are available

Course format

  • Virtual classroom
  • 9.00am to 12.30pm 
  • 4 x 1½-hour sessions, split across 2 half days, 1 week apart

Date information for future sessions

March 2026

  • Dates: 17 & 19 March 2026
  • Times: Each session will run from 9.00am to 12.30pm

October 2026

  • Dates: 13 & 15 October 2026
  • Times: Each session will run from 9.00am to 12.30pm

What you will need

To join the course, you will need access to a computer or laptop with a camera and microphone. You will need to activate a free Zoom account to join the course. This takes 2 minutes and does not require any payment. It is purely for administrative purposes.

Enrol on this course

Enrol on this course