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Writing and Editing

Structure and Organization

Patrick Barry

4.7

Based on 539 ratings

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Patrick Barry

This second course in the Good with Words: Writing and Editing series will help you become an effective architect of information, both with your sentences and with your paragraphs. You’ll learn that the traditional advice to “Show, don’t tell” is incomplete and that skilled writers actually switch back and forth between showing and telling.

You’ll also learn more about the menu of time management techniques introduced in the first course of the series, including “deep work,” “studio time,” and “the Animal Farm Principle.” And as with the other three courses in this series, you will get access to a wide range of books and other resources you can use even after you finish the course. These include: (1) the readings and exercises provided to the students who have taken the in-person version of this course at the University of Michigan and the University of Chicago; (2) two digital libraries of excellent writing from a diverse collection of journalists, scientists, novelists, poets, historians, and entrepreneurs; and (3) a monthly “Good Sentences” email.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Sentence Flow

In this first week, you will be introduced to instructor Patrick Barry and begin to learn about sentence flow and structure. In-video questions will direct you to content previously covered in the first course of this specialization.

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Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Focuses on helping students become better writers

Builds a foundational understanding of essential writing principles

Covers topics such as sentence flow, structure, and paragraphing

Offers practical exercises and examples to enhance learning

Provides access to a range of resources and materials for further exploration

Suitable for both beginners and experienced writers looking to improve their skills

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Reviews summary

Refine writing: structure, organization, and flow

According to learners, this course is a highly beneficial (positive) experience for those aiming to sharpen writing and editing skills (positive). Students consistently commend the instructor's engaging and insightful delivery (positive), particularly his unique re-examination of the 'Show, don't tell' technique (positive). Many found the lessons on sentence and paragraph organization (positive) immediately applicable, providing practical strategies (positive) for improving clarity and flow. The inclusion of extensive supplementary resources (positive) and valuable time management tips (positive) is also a significant highlight. While some concepts might revisit foundational ideas for experienced writers, the course offers fresh perspectives (positive) that benefit diverse learners seeking to enhance their professional communication.

Ideal for those with some writing experience seeking to refine their skills.

"As an experienced writer, this course helped me polish and formalize techniques I already used instinctively, giving me a stronger foundation."

"If you're a complete beginner, you might want to start with the first course in the series to get foundational knowledge before this one."

"It's more about refining existing skills than building from scratch, which was perfect for what I needed at my current level."

Introduces useful strategies like 'deep work' for focused writing.

"The 'deep work' concept introduced in this course has significantly boosted my productivity and focus on writing tasks."

"I wasn't expecting time management tips, but they were a pleasant and very useful surprise that I've integrated into my routine."

"Incorporating 'studio time' into my weekly schedule has made a real difference in my consistent writing output."

Access to extensive books, digital libraries, and email tips enhances learning.

"The recommended readings and digital libraries alone are worth the price of admission, providing so much extra value."

"Receiving the 'Good Sentences' email continues to be a great way to keep learning and refine my writing even after the course."

"It's great to have access to the materials and exercises from the University of Michigan in-person course."

Offers a nuanced and practical reinterpretation of a classic writing adage.

"The deep dive into 'Show, don't tell' was revelatory; I always thought it was an absolute rule but now understand its nuances."

"Learning when to 'tell' was just as important as knowing when to 'show,' which was a completely new and useful concept for me."

"This particular module, focusing on the dynamic between showing and telling, alone justified taking the entire course."

Provides immediately applicable tools for sentence and paragraph organization.

"This course taught me how to truly structure my sentences for maximum impact and clarity, which I can apply immediately."

"I finally understand how to organize paragraphs effectively to guide my readers through complex ideas."

"The techniques for 'corresponding ideas in corresponding form' are incredibly useful for my professional documents."

Instructor's unique insights and clear teaching style are highly praised.

"Patrick Barry is a master of breaking down complex writing concepts into digestible, actionable advice."

"I found his lectures incredibly engaging, making even dry topics interesting and memorable."

"I appreciate his fresh perspective on 'Show, don't tell'—it completely changed my approach to writing."

May contain some review of concepts from the first course in the series.

"Some parts felt a bit repetitive if I've already completed the first Good with Words course, but it served as a good review."

"I noticed a few concepts were re-emphasized from earlier material, which was fine for reinforcement but not entirely new information."

"While still valuable, I found some material to be a recap from previous learning, which might not be ideal for everyone."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Writing and Editing: Structure and Organization with these activities:

Review mechanics of sentence structure.

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Review the basics of sentence structure, including parts of speech and grammar rules, to strengthen your foundation in writing.

Browse courses on Sentence Structure

Show steps

Review grammar rules using online resources or textbooks.
Practice identifying parts of speech in sample sentences.
Analyze sentence structure by diagramming or outlining.

Read 'On Writing Well' by William Zinsser

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Read William Zinsser's classic guide to writing for valuable insights and practical advice on sentence structure, clarity, and style.

View Extraordinary Lives on Amazon

Show steps

Obtain a copy of 'On Writing Well' by William Zinsser.
Read the book, taking notes on key principles and techniques.
Apply the lessons learned to your own writing, experimenting with different approaches.

Sentence Flow Exercises

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Engage in sentence flow exercises to improve the smoothness and readability of your writing.

Browse courses on Sentence Flow

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Identify and correct sentences with awkward or choppy phrasing.
Practice writing sentences with varying lengths and structures.
Use transition words and phrases to connect ideas within sentences and paragraphs.

Four other activities

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Show all seven activities

Online Tutorials on Show and Tell Techniques

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Explore online tutorials to understand and implement effective show and tell techniques in your writing, making your writing more engaging and impactful.

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Show steps

Identify reputable online resources or platforms offering tutorials on show and tell techniques.
Watch and follow video or written tutorials, taking notes on key concepts and examples.
Practice applying the techniques in your own writing, experimenting with different approaches.

Paragraphing Exercises

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Engage in paragraphing exercises to develop your skills in structuring and organizing ideas effectively in your writing.

Browse courses on Paragraphing

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Identify the main idea and supporting points of a topic.
Practice writing paragraphs that clearly and coherently develop these ideas.
Use topic sentences, transitions, and concluding sentences to ensure smooth flow and logical progression.

Sentence Flow Analysis of Sample Text

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Analyze a sample text, identifying areas where sentence flow could be improved, and provide suggestions to enhance readability and clarity.

Browse courses on Sentence Flow

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Select a sample text relevant to the course material.
Read and analyze the text, paying attention to sentence structure, transitions, and overall flow.
Identify areas where sentence flow could be improved, and provide specific suggestions.

Write a Sample Essay

Show steps

Write a sample essay that showcases your understanding of sentence flow, paragraphing, and the effective use of show and tell techniques, incorporating feedback from your instructor and peers.

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Choose a topic that interests you and aligns with the course material.
Develop an outline and gather supporting evidence and examples.
Write the essay, paying attention to sentence flow, paragraphing, and using show and tell techniques.
Revise and edit your essay based on feedback from your instructor and peers.

Career center

Learners who complete Writing and Editing: Structure and Organization will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Lawyer

Lawyers represent clients in court and provide legal advice. They may write legal documents, such as contracts, wills, and briefs. This course may be useful for Lawyers because it can help them improve their writing skills and learn how to effectively organize and structure their documents.

See salaries and explore the career path for Lawyer

Public Relations Specialist

Public Relations Specialists manage the public image of organizations and individuals. They may write press releases, speeches, and other materials. This course may be useful for Public Relations Specialists because it can help them improve their writing skills and learn how to effectively organize and structure their materials.

See salaries and explore the career path for Public Relations Specialist

Marketing Manager

Marketing Managers plan and execute marketing campaigns. They may write marketing materials, such as brochures, website content, and social media posts. This course may be useful for Marketing Managers because it can help them improve their writing skills and learn how to effectively organize and structure their materials.

See salaries and explore the career path for Marketing Manager

Professor

Professors teach and conduct research at colleges and universities. They may write books, articles, and other materials. This course may be useful for Professors because it can help them improve their writing skills and learn how to effectively organize and structure their materials.

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Editor

Editors review, fact-check, and revise written material. They may work for publishers, magazines, newspapers, or marketing agencies. This course may be useful for Editors because it can help them build a foundation in sentence flow and structure, as well as paragraphing techniques.

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Journalist

Journalists research, write, and report on news and current events. They may work for newspapers, magazines, websites, or television and radio stations. This course may be useful for Journalists because it can help them improve their writing skills and learn how to effectively organize and structure their articles.

See salaries and explore the career path for Journalist

Novelist

Novelists write fictional stories. They may work on their own or with a publisher. This course may be useful for Novelists because it can help them improve their writing skills and learn how to effectively organize and structure their stories.

See salaries and explore the career path for Novelist

Screenwriter

Screenwriters write scripts for movies and television shows. They may work on their own or with a production company. This course may be useful for Screenwriters because it can help them improve their writing skills and learn how to effectively organize and structure their scripts.

See salaries and explore the career path for Screenwriter

Poet

Poets write poems. They may work on their own or with a publisher. This course may be useful for Poets because it can help them improve their writing skills and learn how to effectively organize and structure their poems.

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Instructional Designer

Instructional Designers create and develop educational materials. They may work for schools, businesses, or other organizations. This course may be useful for Instructional Designers because it can help them learn how to effectively organize and structure their materials.

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Technical Communicator

Technical Communicators write and edit technical documentation, such as user manuals, white papers, and training materials. They may work for a variety of organizations, including software companies, hardware manufacturers, and government agencies. This course may be useful for Technical Communicators because it can help them improve their writing skills and learn how to effectively organize and structure their documents.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Communicator

User Experience Writer

User Experience Writers write and edit content for websites, apps, and other digital products. They focus on creating a positive user experience by making sure that the content is clear, concise, and easy to use. This course may be useful for User Experience Writers because it can help them improve their writing skills and learn how to effectively organize and structure their content.

See salaries and explore the career path for User Experience Writer

Content Writer

Content Writers focus on creating website or blog content. They may also write scripts, social media posts, or other digital material. This course may be useful because it can help Content Writers understand how to organize and structure their writing to be more effective.

See salaries and explore the career path for Content Writer

Copywriter

Copywriters typically use engaging text to promote a product, service, or brand. This course may be helpful for Copywriters because it can improve their ability to craft compelling sentences and paragraphs that persuade readers to take action.

See salaries and explore the career path for Copywriter

Technical Writer

Technical Writers create text that explains complex technical information for a particular audience. You may write user manuals, white papers, proposals, and other documents. This course may be useful for Technical Writers because it can help build a foundation in sentence flow and structure, as well as paragraphing techniques.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer

Reading list

We've selected 14 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Writing and Editing: Structure and Organization.

The Elements of Style

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This classic guide to writing provides clear and concise advice on grammar, punctuation, and style. It valuable reference for writers of all levels.

Writing and Editing

Structure and Organization

What's inside

Syllabus

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Reviews summary

Refine writing: structure, organization, and flow

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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