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Advanced Novel Revision Techniques

writer's working session
WRITING X 413.8E

Develop tools for reworking your novel draft through study of the revision process and in-depth workshop critique.

Duration
As few as 10 weeks
Units
3.0
Current Formats
Online
Cost
Starting at $795.00

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What you can learn.

Identify and address problems in your manuscript draft
Review structure, character, voice, language, and other elements to ensure your draft gets stronger
Complete a thorough revision of one section of your novel in a supportive workshop of peers
Leave class with a plan of attack for further revisions

About This Course

For writers who have completed a draft of their novel, or have found themselves mired in the vast middle, uncertain of direction, this advanced workshop focuses on techniques in revision applied specifically to your manuscript. You’ll approach the art of the rewrite by seeing your work through the eyes of dedicated readers – your workshop peers – and then by studying techniques of revision that can help you re-imagine your story with greater clarity and force. You leave the course having thoroughly revised at least one problem section of your novel, with a clear plan for continued revision.

Winter 2026 Schedule

Date
Details
Format
 
-
This section has no set meeting times.
Instructor:
REG#
406129
Fee:
$795.00
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Updating...
Notes

Enrollment limited to 12 students; early enrollment advised. Visitors not permitted. $100 non-refundable. Enrollment discounts limited to WP NOW members; no other discounts apply.

Admission to this course is by application only. The priority application deadline for applications is Monday, December 1 at 9am (PT). Applications submitted after this date are not guaranteed consideration.

Submission guidelines:

Submit one document (double-spaced, 12-point font, 1-inch margins on all sides) containing:

  • a 10-page writing sample;
  • a synopsis of up to one page if the writing sample is an excerpt from a longer work (i.e. novel or memoir);
  • a personal statement of one paragraph outlining what the student hopes to gain from the class;
  • and a list of previous courses completed in the Writers’ Program or other programs, with instructors (when known).

To apply:

Log in with your existing student account and then add to cart and follow the prompts to create a new or returning student account. Then, follow the remaining instructions below:

  • Click “Start” on the first Application page.
  • On the 2nd Application page, click “Start” on the bottom left side of the page.
  • After that, you will be asked to upload a writing sample, per the guidelines below.
  • Once you finish the steps, click "Submit Application."

Please note that there are no pre-approvals. All students must submit the above requirements in order to be eligible for an advanced creative writing course.

Note: Despite being asked to enter payment information, you will not be charged for this course unless you choose to enroll if/when you receive a notice of acceptance for the course.

Selection notices will likely be distributed via email 1-2 weeks before the class is scheduled to start.

This online course is conducted through Canvas, a secure website that allows students to log in to access lectures, discussions, and other course materials on demand. There are no required live class meetings. Each course is structured with weekly assignments and deadlines. Lectures and coursework are accessible throughout the week. Workshops are conducted in writing via discussion boards with your instructor and classmates.

Deadline
Refunds only available from November 03, 2025 to December 31, 2025
Course Requirements
Internet access required to retrieve course materials.
Book: Self-Editing for Fiction Writers by Renni Browne and Dave King