Editors are an important part of many industries. Below, we'll explain what an editor does, where they work, and the steps to take to become one.
What is an Editor?
An editor is someone who goes over written work and ensures it's fit for publication. They may work closely with writers to fine&ndashtune their drafts.
There are several types of editors, each working on a different type of content. This may include web content, books, and game storylines. Editors may work freelance or as part of a company.
While editors may work in different settings and on different projects, they perform similar duties.
These include:
- approving drafts for publication
- assisting with page layouts
- brainstorming content ideas
- checking grammar, punctuation, and spelling
- checking for consistency
- fact–checking
- helping writers develop their ideas
Editors often work as part of a team that may include writers, content creators, and other editors.
Types of Editors
There are many different kinds of editors, each with a particular role.
Some common types of editors include:
- assistant editors: Assistant editors are typically responsible for a specific topic, like local news or sports. They may work for newspapers, book publishers, and public relations firms, among many others.
- copy editors: Vopy editors carefully check for grammar, punctuation, and spelling mistakes. They may also confirm sources, fact–check, and do further research.
- executive editors: An executive editor is a supervisory role. They typically work for news sources and have the final say in what stories are published. They may also hire and plan budgets.
- line editors: Line editors work for book publishing houses and review manuscripts to make sure the story is cohesive and consistent.
- managing editors: A managing editor is another type of supervisory role. They're in charge of the daily operations of news departments.
- proofreaders: Proofreaders make sure all the grammar, spelling, punctuation, and syntax are accurate. They may also check and adjust formatting.
- publication assistants: Publication assistants working for book publishing companies will read and evaluate manuscripts and proofread manuscripts.
Top Skills for Editors
There are several skills that will help you become a successful editor.
These skills include:
- creativity: Being creative can help editors come up with ideas for projects and solutions to problems.
- detail–oriented: Editors need to be detail–oriented so they can ensure that every draft is as close to perfect as possible.
- judgement: Having good judgement helps editors choose the right pieces to publish.
- multitasking: Editors may be working on more than one piece or assignment at a time, so multitasking is imperative.
- research skills: Editors may need to fact–check and look up sources as part of their responsibility.
- writing skills: In some cases, editors may be required to rewrite sections and need to do so in a way that matches the rest of the piece.
Steps to Become an Editor
There is no one specific pathway to becoming an editor, but there are things you can do to help yourself have a successful career in the writing industry.
We'll break down the basic steps below.
Step 1: Earn a Degree
While a degree isn't a requirement to become an editor, most employers prefer to hire employees with degrees.
Typically, a bachelor's degree is enough for an editor, although supervisory editors at larger companies may need a master's to move up.
There is no degree specifically for editing.
If you want to become an editor, some good majors are:
- bachelor's degree in English
- bachelor's degree in communications
- bachelor's degree in journalism
- bachelor's degree in marketing
The major you choose should correspond to the field you want to work in. For example, those who want to be editors in the news field may want to major in journalism.
Step 2: Gain Experience
Gaining experience is the best way to become a successful editor.
You can start to gain experience while still in school. High school and college students can earn experience by working for school publications.
These include:
- blogs
- newspapers and newsletters
- radio stations
- TV stations
- yearbooks
An internship is another excellent way to gain experience. Many newspapers and magazines offer internships to college students.
Other places to look for internships include:
- advertising companies
- book publishing houses
- online blogs
- TV stations
As you gain experience, you can start building your portfolio. A portfolio is a collection of your work that you can show to hiring managers as proof of your experience and expertise.
Step 3: Consider Additional Training or Certification
To further your career, you may want to look into additional training courses or certification options.
Many colleges and universities offer writing and editing certifications. These programs include courses to polish your skills and provide a certificate once you've finished.
Several professional associations offer courses and certifications as well.
These include:
- ACES: The Society for Editors
- The Editorial Freelancers Association
- Writer's Digest
You can also find editing courses, some offering certification, through online course catalogs like Coursera and edX.
Editor Salary and Job Outlook
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for editors was $63,350 in 2021.
However, it's important to remember that editors can work in a variety of fields and that some work freelance and others are salaried. These can all play a big role in the amount you earn.
Currently, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment for editors will decrease by about five percent by 2031. This is primarily due to the decrease in traditional print media.
Become an Editor Today
The steps you'll take to become an editor will depend on the type of editor you want to be and the environment you want to work in. Reach out to Best Accredited Colleges today and let us help you become an editor today.
