
In today’s fast-changing digital landscape, freelancers need more than just talent, they need the right tools to stay organised, productive and competitive. In this lesson, I'll discuss some of my favourite and most useful platforms and resources available in 2025, from writing and editing aids to pitching tools, portfolio platforms, social media networks, and travel planning apps.
You’ll learn how to streamline your workflow, connect with editors, build your online presence, and manage the business side of freelance writing. Whether you're launching a blog, pitching international publications, or building a newsletter audience, these tools will help you work smarter and get your stories published.
Magazines and newspapers are businesses: in retail terms, the reader is the customer, and the editor the chief buyer. Think like this, and you'll be much better off.
Learn about how the process works, from pitch to commission.
How to write your pitch, with an example of pitching guidelines from Fodor's.
Editors receive countless article pitches daily, so it is crucial to highlight your article's unique selling points and benefits, differentiating it from the competition. The three whys does exactly that. Emphasize what makes your story valuable, informative, and relevant to the publication's readers. Showcase your expertise, exclusive insights, or access to valuable resources – all while maintaining an authoritative tone within a conversational style.
In this lesson, you’ll see exactly what a successful pitch looks like. We’ll break down a real email example – one that would catch an editor’s attention and stand a good chance of landing a commission.
You’ll learn why certain elements matter, including the subject line, intro, story hook, and tone. We’ll also discuss how to frame your idea clearly and confidently, show that you’ve done your research, and demonstrate that you're the best person for the job and understand the publication’s audience.
By discussing what works in a strong pitch line by line, you’ll gain practical insight into what editors are really looking for, and how to apply these principles to your own pitching process.
Want to know exactly what an editor is looking for? Start with the writers’ guidelines. In this lesson, you'll learn how these often-overlooked documents can give you vital clues about tone, word count, payment, rights, and preferred content. We’ll also explore forward features lists, editorial calendars that many publications release in advance, outlining the topics they plan to cover in upcoming issues. These are goldmines for generating timely, relevant ideas and pitching with precision. By using both tools, you’ll save time, avoid misfires, and dramatically increase your chances of acceptance. Mastering this part of the process can help you move from generic pitches to targeted ones that editors will actually read, and commission.
Unlock your potential and transform your passion for writing into a rewarding career with Freelance Journalism: How to Pitch and Write for Magazines.
Imagine the thrill of seeing your byline in your favourite magazine, knowing that your words are inspiring and informing readers around the world.
For the past two years, I've been part of the selection process for the TravMedia Awards UK, where I’ve had the privilege of reviewing hundreds of travel articles and guidebooks from some of the most talented and renowned writers in the industry. As an NCTJ-accredited journalist and editor, I've also written for titles such as The Guardian, The Telegraph, The Sunday Times, The Independent, Conde Nast Traveller, the BBC, Harper's Bazaar, Food & Travel, Metro, Jamie Oliver Magazine, and many, many others. I've worked as a freelance for 20+ years, and successfully pitched hundreds of articles and stories over this time. I've also written four books and I run my own blog, What Katie Did Now.
This course is my inside track on how to pitch an article idea and get it published.
It isn't just about mastering the mechanics of journalism; it's about igniting your creativity and finding your unique voice.
Most writing courses, in their focus on the craft, tend to overlook the most important part of the process: how to SELL a story. Because without that sale, you're not in business. This course will walk you through the necessary steps to run your freelance career, write a good pitch/proposal and get you those elusive commissions locked in.
It will delve into the details of the pitching process, providing indispensable tips and techniques to help you craft compelling pitches that highlight your idea's unique selling points, and ultimately enhancing your conversion rates.
My course offers more than just technical skills—it provides a supportive community of fellow writers who are as passionate about storytelling as you are. Together, we'll celebrate each milestone, from your first pitch to your first published article.
Whether you're new to freelance journalism or looking to refine your skills, this course will guide you through every step of the process. Discover the joy of sharing stories that matter, and let your writing make a difference. Join us and turn your dreams of being a published writer into reality.
“Great tips for anyone starting out or just needing a fresh outlook on pitching to new editors. The lesson on confidence was particularly relevant to a writer who is quite weary with not hearing back. Editors are not better than you, just busy, so don’t give up! Katie touches on everything from tone of voice, to treating your pitch like a business – an indispensable course.” SARA DARLING, travel, culture and lifestyle writer.
"This course is BRILLIANT! It was just what I needed to be able to pitch editors my ideas. I always wondered what went on behind the scenes of freelance writing, and now I know. I feel way more confident to approach publications now, and my freelance journalism career is just beginning. Thanks Katie! Loved it!" Sterre van Dijk