An intensive workshop in Madison, Wisconsin | August 21, 2026
Ann Althouse/Flickr; Siri Carpenter; Richard Hurd/Flickr
Great writing depends on great editing—and great editing is a skill that can be learned.
In this highly interactive 6-hour in-person workshop in Madison, Wisconsin, participants will develop practical editing techniques that strengthen both their own writing and their ability to work effectively with others’ work.
Designed for working editors as well as writers who want to become stronger self-editors, this training centers on Editing Forensics™—a systematic approach to evaluating stories at the conceptual, structural, and stylistic levels to identify what a piece needs to become clearer, stronger, and more compelling.
Drawing on The Open Notebook’s 15 years of experience training science journalists worldwide, this workshop combines concrete frameworks, hands-on exercises, and expert guidance to help participants develop sharper editorial instincts and produce cleaner, more effective copy.
Date and Location
Friday August 21, 2026 | 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. CDT
Destination Madison Boardroom | 22 E. Mifflin St, Suite 200, Madison, Wisconsin
Workshop Description
This immersive, hands-on training demystifies science editing. It equips editors with the tools to interpret, select, and plan stories, address common issues in drafts, coach and communicate effectively with writers, and edit with equity and inclusion in mind. The in-person context offers opportunities for hands-on practice, peer collaboration, and practical problem solving.
Core topics we’ll cover include:
- Developing the skills and mindset of an editor
- Sharpening story ideas and developing reporting plans
- Prioritizing the steps in your editing or self-editing process
- Using The Open Notebook’s Editing ForensicsTM approach to identify and address common conceptual, structural, and style issues in drafts
- Recognizing when you are done editing
- Nurturing a strong editor-writer relationship
- Handling challenging situations in the editorial process
The workshop will include ample time for discussion and collaborative exercises. Participants will receive a variety of take-home resources, including handy editing checklists and a curated collection of relevant resources from The Open Notebook.
Registration Fee
$375 per person. Lunch is included. (A minimum of 20 registrants is required for this event to run. If fewer than 20 register, attendees will be notified and refunded.)
Deadline to register: July 31, 2026
Come for the editor training, stay for OWAA’s annual conference!
The Outdoor Writers Association of America is kicking off their 100th anniversary celebration with their annual conference in Madison, Wisconsin, from August 22-24! The conference schedule is packed full of good stuff; and consider also leaving room for some pre- and post-tours! The core conference activities will be held in the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center in downtown Madison.