Writing Short Form Nonfiction

About this course:

Short, well-focused articles provide one of the surest pathways for breaking into publication. It's easier than you might think--if you know how the print and online publishing worlds work, understand the needs and demands of particular markets, and put some effort into polishing your skills. In this enjoyable six-week course, you achieve those goals while you produce weekly assignments of 250-500 words in specific nonfiction genres, including personal essay, how-to story, interview/profile, reviews, trends stories, narrative nonfiction, and research essays--which are then workshopped in class. You gain valuable experience in thinking and writing like a pro, all while having fun in a positive, supportive, and constructive environment. The course goal is to write and begin polishing at least eight short nonfiction pieces while gaining a clearer understanding of what editors look for, how they think, and how to pitch to them.