Course Description

Mastering the Craft of Nonfiction Writing

In a world oversaturated with information, the art of nonfiction writing stands as a testament to the pursuit of truth, authenticity, and in-depth exploration of experiences and events. From the comprehensive histories penned by biographers to the daily news snippets curated by journalists, nonfiction embodies an expansive spectrum of writing that roots itself in verifiable reality.

Recent data suggests that the consumption of nonfiction content, particularly online, has seen a surge with the growing demand for genuine, insightful, and well-researched information. In such a climate, equipping oneself with superior nonfiction writing skills can be a game-changer.

Welcome to our advanced course in nonfiction writing, where we endeavor to hone your skills beyond rudimentary levels, readying you for the competitive world of content creation and publishing. This course delves deep into not just the 'how' but also the 'why' of nonfiction writing, ensuring a holistic learning experience.

Lesson 1: The Editor's Perspective
Before pen meets paper, learn the mindset of an editor. Understand the nuances of content selection, quality control, and reader engagement from an editorial vantage point.

Lesson 2: Deciphering the Format
Is it an article, a project, or a book you wish to write? Determine the ideal format for your content based on its length, depth, and target audience.

Lesson 3: Crafting the Perfect Subject & Title
Discover techniques to select compelling subjects, design captivating titles, and engage your reader from the get-go.

Lesson 4: In-depth Research
Good nonfiction is grounded in thorough research. Acquaint yourself with tools, methodologies, and ethics in collecting and presenting information.

Lesson 5: Scouting the Competition
In a competitive landscape, understanding what others are doing can give you an edge. Learn to analyze the market and identify gaps you can fill with your unique perspective.

Lesson 6: Building Structure
Organize your thoughts coherently. Grasp the principles of logical flow, chapter divisions, and maintaining a consistent tone throughout your work.

Lesson 7: Embrace the Writer Within
Delve into the psychology of writing. Explore personal barriers, understand your writing style, and celebrate the unique voice you bring to the table.

Lesson 8: Conquering Writer's Block
Stagnation hits the best of us. Unearth strategies to rejuvenate your creativity, maintain momentum, and ensure consistent progress in your writing journey.

Lesson 9: Rhythmic Writing
Good writing resonates. Unravel the art of pacing, tone variation, and how to revise content to maximize impact and readability.

Lesson 10: Technical Perfection
No content shines without impeccable grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Reinforce your command over the language, ensuring clarity and precision.

Lesson 11: The Editing Mantra
The first draft is just the beginning. Immerse in iterative editing processes, refining content to mirror publishing standards.

Lesson 12: Upholding Authenticity
Nonfiction's essence lies in its truthfulness. Grasp the importance of fact-checking, sourcing, and proper notation to uphold your credibility.

Lesson 13: The Final Presentation
Once written, the presentation is paramount. Learn about layout decisions, spacing nuances, and formatting techniques to ensure your work is not just well-written but also well-presented.

In essence, this course promises not just to teach you nonfiction writing, but to immerse you in its universe. By its culmination, you should not only be adept at creating compelling content but also be well-versed in presenting it to publishers and readers alike. Remember, the essence of a writer lies in writing. So, let's dive in and start crafting!

  • Completely Online
  • Self-Paced
  • Printable Lessons
  • Full HD Video  
  • 6 Months to Complete
  • 24/7 Availability
  • Start Anytime
  • PC & Mac Compatible
  • Android & iOS Friendly
  • Accredited CEUs
Universal Class is an IACET Accredited Provider
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Define the three key components of successful nonfiction writing by evaluating the subject relevance, treatment of the topic, and marketability.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of nonfiction narrative structure by creating a manuscript with a clear introduction, body with themes, and a compelling conclusion.
  • Demonstrate the ability to outline a nonfiction writing project with clear sections and engaging narrative techniques to enhance reader comprehension and retention.
  • Recognize the structural differences between short articles, long articles, projects, and books within nonfiction writing.
  • Construct a well-defined thesis on the impact of non-classroom experiences in education, supported by real-world case studies and research evidence.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of how non-classroom experiences contribute to personal and professional development by providing specific examples from their own life.
  • Assess and evaluate the relevance and reliability of gathered information to construct a coherent and insightful nonfiction narrative.
  • Define and demonstrate effective research techniques to identify credible sources from both online databases and physical libraries.
  • Identify strategies to build a strong network and reputation within the nonfiction writing industry, utilizing social media and collaborative opportunities.
  • Define and articulate the unique selling proposition (USP) for their nonfiction writing, drawing upon competitive analysis insights.
  • Demonstrate the ability to create a detailed outline for a nonfiction piece, effectively organizing thesis statements, main arguments, and supporting details.
  • Identify the key elements of a structured nonfiction narrative and explain their importance in maintaining logical flow and reader engagement.
  • Define personal writing style by continuously practicing writing techniques and articulating personal reflections on self-awareness and authenticity.
  • Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
 
 

Assessment Guide

Assessment Points
An Introduction 1 points
Lesson 1: Before You Start, Think Like An Editor 8 points
Lesson 1 Review Exam 19 points
Lesson 2: Article, Project or Book? 8 points
Lesson 2 Review Exam 12 points
Lesson 3: Subject, Title and Subtitles 9 points
Lesson 3 Review Exam 4 points
Lesson 4 Activity 1 points
Lesson 4: Researching Your Subject 9 points
Lesson 4 Review Exam 5 points
Lesson 5 Assignment 25 points
Lesson 5: Reviewing Your Competition 10 points
Lesson 5 Review Exam 9 points
Lesson 6 Activity 1 points
Lesson 6: Structure and Organization 7 points
Lesson 6 Review Exam 14 points
Lesson 7 Activity 1 points
Lesson 7: Writers Write; Getting Comfy in Your Own Skin 10 points
Lesson 8: Get To The Finish Line; What To Do When You Hit A Block 10 points
Lesson 8 Review Exam 13 points
Lesson 9 Assignment 25 points
Lesson 9: Rewriting and Rhythm; Polishing for Your Audience 8 points
Lesson 9 Review Exam 8 points
Lesson 10 Assignment 25 points
Lesson 10: Spelling, Grammar and Proper Punctuation 9 points
Lesson 10 Review Exam 9 points
Lesson 11: Edit and Edit Again 8 points
Lesson 11 Review Exam 20 points
Lesson 12: Fact Checking and Proper Notation 9 points
Lesson 12 Review Exam 20 points
Lesson 13: Layout, Proper Spacing and Format – Your Finished Product 9 points
The Final Exam 57 points
Lesson 13 Review Exam 20 points
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