Frequently Asked Questions

Q.  Are there differences between the internet and telephone sessions?
A.   No. The internet and teleconference sessions offer identical instruction. However, the internet also offers a live video feed and a chat function for asking questions during the session. Teleconference participants may ask questions after the session.

Q.  I will call from outside the US or Canada.  What should I do?
A.   Send an email at least two days before the class or workshop and we will provide access codes. Your email should be directed to:  contact@helpingwriters.com

Q.  Is there an additional cost if I participate by teleconference?
A.   The teleconference option is toll free for all US and Canadian numbers, but there may be additional charges for calls from other countries.

Q.  I can’t hear the sound through my computer.  What should I do?
A.   First, be sure your speakers or earphones are turned on and the volume setting on your screen is turned up. Check your computer’s settings (usually under preferences) to be sure your speakers are operating. Some speakers have physical volume knobs or buttons as well. A separate volume control for the webinar itself will appear in the lower left of your screen. Turn up this volume control as well.

Q.  I’ve tried everything and I still cannot hear.
A.   Some older computers require additional external speakers or earphones. Join the teleconference by phone while keeping your computer screen active. There will be a slight time lag between the video screen and the phone audio, but this option does work quite well.

Q.  Do I need to print out the class materials in advance?
A.   We will provide you with electronic files of all class materials. We strongly encourage you to print out these materials and have them available during your class or workshop. You should receive these materials two weeks prior to your workshop date or your first class session. If you do not have them two days before your session, send an email to: contact@helpingwriters.com

Q.  How can I ask questions?
A.   Students who join via the internet can ask questions during the session by using the chat function. However, all students will be able to ask questions afterward. Scott will answer all questions via phone and/or email, and will issue group emails for answers that can benefit all students. Your options for asking questions:

• Email them to:  contact@helpingwriters.com
• Call our Question Line at 612-929-2699 and leave your question in the voice-mail message box. Leave your name, workshop title, phone number, and email address.
• Scott will take your questions up to three days after your workshop or the final session of your class.

Q.  Do I need to have a PayPal account in order to register for a class or workshop?
A.   No. Our shopping cart system encourages PayPal, but you may pay online using Visa, MasterCard, DiscoverCard, or American Express. Simply click “proceed to confirmation” below the “pay via PayPal” window and you will be given credit card options.

Q.  May I pay by check or money order?
A.   Yes, but your check or money order must clear before we can enter you into the registration system. To register and pay by mail, print out the registration page in the shopping cart, fill out all relevant sections, and send the information with your check or money order to: Scott Edelstein, HelpingWriters.com, 3947 Excelsior Boulevard, Suite 121, Minneapolis, MN 55416. Make checks payable to HelpingWriters.com

Q.  May I register on the same day as the first class or workshop?
A.   No. Registrations for classes and workshops conducted as webinars and teleconferences close 72 hours before the workshop or first class session. This allows time for students to receive and print out their instructions and handouts. For in-person classes, registrations may be handled by a sponsoring organization (such as the Loft Literary Center in Minneapolis). Each sponsor has different registration policies. Follow the appropriate links to learn more.

Q.  What if my question has not been answered in the information above?
A.   Email us at contact@helpingwriters.com or call the Q&A hotline, 612-929-2699. We will try to reach you as quickly as possible.