Offered online and locally through traveling seminars or college extension offices, business writing courses cover the basics of punctuation, grammar and professionalism in writing. Expect to learn about the importance of proper spelling and instruction about when it's appropriate to send an email and when a phone or face-to-face conversation is most advantageous for you as a co-worker, manager or someone who reports to others. Business writing courses focus on teaching you how to write clearly, concisely and professionally. You will also learn the proper format for typing memos, business letters and emails.
Technical writing is different from business writing even though it is often used at work in specific jobs. Technical writing involves writing software manuals, technical guides and writing about technology for others. Different industries like the aeronautics industry, computer programming and software development industries and the oil and gas industry use specific terms you will have to learn to write with and about in technical documents. Look for technical writing courses specific to your industry, or the industry you want to get a job in, to make yourself more marketable and proficient in your trade. These courses are often offered online and at local community colleges.
If English is not your first language and you are trying to learn how to write English fluently for your school or job, there are a number of English as a Second Language (ESL) courses available online which cover many aspects of writing in English when it is not your primary language. You will practice listening, reading and writing for academic as well as business purposes. Spelling, essay writing and formal letter writing are all common topics covered in ESL writing classes, which are available online and at many community colleges.
If you're looking to give voice to a creative poem, work of fiction or short story idea you've carried around in your head for a while, a creative writing course at your local community, state or private college might be just what you need to express your idea for the entertainment and enjoyment of others. Some schools offer free creative and academic writing courses online, which you can use to get your feet wet. Afterward, you can expand your knowledge with additional online or onsite courses for a fee. You may need to gain clearance to take classes without being enrolled as a student if you are not currently attending the college or university.