Writing for the Internet Course

Here we say ‘Hello’ and advise you how and when to study the course to get the best out of it. Then we move on to online research techniques, including search engines, databases and keyword tips, how to identify fact from fiction, contacting experts, researching UK and overseas markets and how to use the Internet to find funding.

In this module we’ll show you how to research the markets for your writing, the correct way to behave online – netiquette – how to handle the sales process and newsletters. But the bulk of this module is dedicated to navigating your way through the numerous freelance job websites that exist and the pros and cons of finding work this way.

Here we’ll show you how to sell your book online, including finding and researching global publishers. You’ll examine the different publishing methods and which is best for you, agents and whether you should get one, how to create an attention-grabbing synopsis and what to do if a publisher says ‘Yes!’

You’ll learn how to use social media to promote your writing, including blogs, with instruction on the mechanics of setting up a blog and getting it search engine listed. Then you’ll move on to what to blog about, what types of posts to use and how to get people to read and subscribe to your blog. You’ll also learn about websites – what to include, how to present it and how to make it work for you.

In this module you’ll learn about copywriting for the Internet, including the principles of online copywriting and essential HTML for copywriters. Then you’ll move on to writing emails and e-zines, website sales pages and the all-important principles of SEO. We’ll finish off by looking at blogging and micro-blogging.

Here you’ll learn the important legal aspects you’ll need to know, such as what electronic rights you can sell, what copyright does and doesn’t cover, copyright and your website, privacy and emails, plagiarism, quotes and the perils of using other people’s work.

Finally, we’ll show you how to avoid the pitfalls of the Internet, including viruses, hoaxes, email scams, spyware and hackers. Then we’ll look at scams that relate specifically to writing online, such as bogus literary agents, dodgy books doctors, dubious contests, and, crucially, how to protect yourself and your writing from them.

Your assignment is based around writing blogs. Your tutor will give you invaluable feedback that will help you to create exciting and valuable content for you own or other people's blogs.