what to know before taking a copyediting course\

Employers often look for copy editors who have a degree in English or a related field to ensure they hire people who are well-versed in grammar rules and written communication. Some employers may also accept an associate's degree or equivalent experience, but a bachelor's degree is a standard qualification for many copy editing positions.

Full Answer

Why choose a copy editing course?

Progressing to a copy editing course then allows you to develop as an editor to be able to focus on a wider range of issues such as themes, flow, insight, sense and working to a brief. Nevertheless, many of today’s copy editing training courses combine elements of both, as you will see in our list.

How do I get a copy editor certification?

While pursuing official certification, consider signing up for a professional association for copy editors such as the Editorial Freelancers Association or the Society for Editing, also known as the American Copy Editors Society.

What skills do you need to be a copy editor?

Pursue a college degree Employers often look for copy editors who have a degree in English or a related field to ensure they hire people who are well-versed in grammar rules and written communication.

Which PTC course is best for copy editing?

This copy editing course from the PTC is ideal as the next step from the Essential Proofreading: Editorial Skills One course. You’ll need to know the BSI symbols used and will learn the fundamentals of copy editing both fiction and non fiction, both on and offline.

Is copyediting Certification worth it?

Overall, the majority of members who took an editing certificate program found it to be valuable for building skills, knowledge, and a professional network, and would recommend a program for both beginning and experienced editors.

What are the 5 C's of copyediting?

They are concision, completeness, consistency, correctness, and, last but most notable, clarity.

How do I get started in copyediting?

To become a copy editor, use these steps as a guide to start your career:Pursue a college degree. ... Read and write regularly. ... Explore different specialties. ... Learn various style guides. ... Build a portfolio through freelance. ... Gain certifications. ... Build a polished resume. ... Market yourself.More items...•

What skills do you need to be a copy editor?

Copy editor skillsExcellent writing skills. An exceptional understanding of language is needed to succeed as a copy editor. ... Ability to connect. ... Creative and inquisitive mind. ... Meticulous attention to detail. ... Organized and deadline-oriented mindset. ... Obtain a college degree. ... Get an internship. ... Gain work experience.More items...•

What are the types of copy editing?

Top 8 Different Types of Copy Editing ServicesProofreading or Mechanical Editing.Developmental & Structural Editing.Evaluation Edit.Line Editing or Substantive Editing.Fact-Checking.Rewriting.SEO Boosting.Content Refreshing.

What is a copy editor do?

What Does a Copy Editor Do? Copy editors review the text that writers produce to correct errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling. Additionally, copy editors ensure that content follows style rules put in place by their employer to express an intended tone.

Can you be a copy editor with no experience?

Entry-Level Copy Editor Jobs As with any entry-level job, it's important to show your enthusiasm for the industry and position, despite your lack of experience. Include any related work experience on your resume, whether it was paid or unpaid, and any copy editor courses or certifications you completed.

Is copy editing a good career?

It's a great and in-demand career! “I had so many people (surprisingly, to me) tell me I could never make a living as an editor. Don't listen to naysayers. It's a great and in-demand career!”

Can I make a living as a copy editor?

How much do copy editors make? According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average copy editor salary in 2021 was around $46,010 per annum. Less experienced copy editors tend to land around $29,000-$34,000, while veterans who have held positions at major publishers can expect $60,000 or more.

What is the difference between editing and copyediting?

To answer this in simple terms: Editing focuses on the meaning of your content, while copyediting focuses on its technical quality.

What is the difference between proofreading and copy editing?

The differences are actually pretty simple to understand once they are explained. They can be summed up in two sentences: Copyeditors catch all the mistakes the author missed. Proofreaders catch all the mistakes the copyeditor missed.

What are the 3 steps in editing?

There are three levels of editing. They are known as substantive, copyediting and proofreading.

What makes a good copy editor?

A good copy editor has an expansive skill set, involving strong attention to detail, knowledge about a variety of subject matters, and an ability to communicate their edits clearly and efficiently.

What is copy editing?

Copy editing is the stage in which a piece of writing, the “copy,” is reviewed and edited to improve its readability. Copy editors ensure the style of writing is consistent, and that the text flows organically from one sentence to the next.

What is the job description of a copy editor?

For instance, a copy editor for a small newspaper helps design page layouts, organize newspaper copy for print or online publications, and decides which news stories should run.

Why is copy editing important?

Enforces flow. Too many words can bog down a text and confuse the reader. A good copy editor will be able to eliminate superfluous sentences and tighten phrasing in order to help streamline the writer’s story or message. Checks for consistency. Copy editor jobs require you to be detail-oriented.

What is a heavy copy edit?

Heavy copy edits, or ‘substantive editing,’ is a deeper involvement with the text that can involve reorganization of passages, tweaking of style and voice, and rewrites.

What is a fact check in copy editing?

Fact checks. The copy editing process can also involve research , especially when editing nonfiction works . If there is no specialized fact checker working on a publication, the copy editor may need to verify dates and events to maintain factual accuracy.

What does it feel like to be a copy editor?

Being a great copy editor can feel like being Robocop or an android who can scan a page and pick out mistakes in seconds. But at the same time you’re taking in the nuances of the sentence and context (particularly where fiction is concerned). Copyediting is about working with the creativity of the work while also making it correct. It can be a delicate dance to perform.

Is copyediting a good job?

Almost anything, really. Though this is where your personal preferences and education can come into play. If you studied business, then copyediting business materials could be a great fit. Likewise for other specialized areas of interest. A copy editor is at their strongest when they are able to fully grasp the material in order to make the necessary corrections for clarity and ease of read.

How do I become a copy editor?

How to become a copy editor in 4 steps. 1. Brush up on your skills. Copy editing is about being focused enough to notice any sentence that might hinder the text’s ability to deliver its message, whether in terms of readability or style — it’s more complex than understanding grammar and vocabulary.

What is a copy editing certificate?

A copy editing certificate from a verified course also acts as a qualification to show employers and clients that you are a trained, knowledgeable professional. It’s not a requirement, but it can enhance your résumé and boost your chances of getting hired.

What does a copy editor do?

A copy editor corrects poor spelling, grammar, and punctuation, refines language to be clearer and more engaging, and fixes factual errors and inconsistencies in a text. A copy editor may work on a full manuscript or something shorter — online copy, an article for a publication, or even a newsletter — going through line-by-line to make it more ...

How much does a copy editor make in 2020?

According to the US Bureau of Labour Statistics, in 2020, the average copy editor salary is around $44,600/year. Less experienced copy editors will make closer to $25,000-$30,000, while veteran copy editors who have held positions at major publishers can make $60,000 or more. As a freelance editor, you set your own rates.

How many times does Aja Pollock read a book?

Aja Pollock, for example, usually reads through each manuscript at least twice: “On the second read, as much as possible, I want to read like a reader, not an editor. You catch different things that way.”. Keep at it, and you too will find a method that suits you and your niche.

What is proofreading in publishing?

A proofread is more about correcting syntax errors, and less about language style — you can get a fuller analysis of the differences in this post. If you work in publishing, there are also administrative editor roles, like editorial assistants or production editors.

Is copy editing a regular editing?

Given the definition above, you might think that copy editing sounds like any regular kind of editing. The truth is copy editing is only one type of editing — there are also other kinds like developmental editing, proofreading, and even managerial editing.

Discover Online Classes in Editing

If you have a keen eye and spot small errors in just about anything you read, copy editing might be the right career choice for you. Often misconstrued with a proofreader, the copy editor job description has a bit more meat to it. If you’re still wondering, well, “What is a copy editor?” we can help.

What Is Copy Editing?

Copy editing is defined as revising written material to improve readability and style while fixing grammatical and spelling errors. It’s not proofreading, although the two functions are mildly related. Proofreading focuses on ensuring the final piece of content is error-free—but doesn’t look at edits larger than typos or grammatical errors.

How to Become a Copy Editor

To become a copy editor, you don’t necessarily need a college degree. While many people do complete degrees, there are other avenues to polish and show off your skills like certifications and courses.

Copy Editor Jobs

To land a copy editor job that you really enjoy, first think about your specific skills, interests, and availability.

Copy Editor Salary

Now let’s get into the good stuff and answer the question: How much money do copy editors make?

How to Find a Copy Editor Job

A job as a professional copy editor can be a fulfilling, flexible position for anyone who loves reading and writing and has a knack for spotting mistakes. Before you embark on a copy editor career, plan for how much you need to make, the hours you’d like to work, and the skills you may need to brush up on.

Why do companies require accreditation?

A lot of industries require some sort of accreditation of certification in order to join them. These are often meant to ensure that new employees are up-to-date with the industry standards and know what the job requires from them. Additionally, it’s a great way for current and prospective employees to acquire new skills ...

What is a certificate through a professional association?

Certificates through professional associations offer a wide range of options and often offer single courses, which are great if you are only looking for one or two courses in a specific topic.

What are the best universities to get a certificate?

University certificates are great for getting started from ground level, but they often have a more rigid schedule and require students to finish all the classes within a specific period of time. UC San Diego. Ryerson University. University of Chicago. Queen’s University.

Did Michael McConnell take a copyediting course?

Editor Michael McConnell says: “I have never taken a copyediting course. I do not have a certificate. I had the good fortune to work with an editor/proofreader named Kathleen Finneran. She taught me about type sizes, fonts, specs, page layout, and editing.”

Is there a certificate program online?

There are a lot of certificate programs out there that are taught completely online, which helps in having a somewhat more balanced work-study-family life. However, if you know that the best way you learn is through in-person instruction, then looking for a program near you will be your best bet.

Do universities charge per course?

While universities often have a higher upfront cost, other programs often charge per course. This is a great option if you’re looking into taking just a few classes on a specific topic, but if you are looking for something more comprehensive, paying per-course adds up quite quickly.

Is copyediting certificates good?

While copyediting certificates may not be the best option for everyone, there are definite benefits to obtaining one. However, keep in mind your level of experience and what your career goals are, as there might be other solutions that can offer you more advantages in the long run.

How long is the copyediting program?

This 12-month online program provides students with a thorough understanding of the skills needed for a successful copyediting a career. It’s ideal for those interested in an editing career and anyone who produces content.

What is copyediting in resume?

Copyediting is the process of revising written material to improve readability and quality. And while printed publications may be going out of style, copy editors are as essential as ever in ...

How long is the Writer's Digest course?

The Writer’s Digest copyediting course is a 10-week program that covers the fundamentals of grammar, form, composition, and advanced copyediting skills. Students participate in critiqued writing assignments and take quizzes along the way to help them prepare for the comprehensive test at the end of the course.

What is copyediting exactly?

There’s a lot that goes into a quality copyedit, so it’s important for a copyeditor to be well-trained so that industry-standard editing rules are followed. This ensures absolute consistency throughout the document, otherwise, the author has no idea what rules the copyeditor is following.

What is a copyediting example?

Many authors worry that copyeditors will completely rewrite their book or remove their voice entirely. Sadly, inexperienced (or egotistical) copyeditors have been known to do that, which is why it’s important for freelance copyeditors to be trained to edit from a reader’s perspective and with respect to the author’s work.

Who needs copyediting?

Now that you know how essential copyediting is, you can probably guess who needs copyediting. First-time authors, established authors, companies, and publishing houses make up the majority of people and organizations who need great copyeditors. These trained professionals provide an essential skill set to ensure the integrity of the written word.

How to become a copyeditor?

Are you intrigued by how important copyediting is to the writing and editing process? Now that you know the answer to “what is copyediting,” you can become a copyeditor and proofreader to help countless writers improve their work.

What is the best online copy editing course for 2020?

If you’re looking for a flexible course you can do from home, then here are 5 online copy editing training courses for 2020: 1. Online proofreading and editing course (level 4) – College of Media and Publishing. The ideal course for beginners or self-publishers, you’ll learn how to proofread and edit documents both in hard copy ...

What is copy editing?

In traditional book publishing, NY Book Editors describes a copy editor as the person who: “focuses on both the small details and the big picture.

What is a CIEP certificate?

2. Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading courses. The CIEP is a professional organisation for proofreaders and editors in the UK.

Do websites need editors?

Many websites and local and online publications also routinely need editors, even if it’s not full-time, so search for ‘editors/proofreaders wanted’ either remotely or targeted to your local area. Build your presence – As with any new career choice, it’s important to make sure you refine and promote your skills.

What is Chris' advice for freelance proofreaders?

His advice for those aspiring to become freelance proofreaders and copy editors is: “Be consistent with the quality of your work. This is key to repeat and future projects. If you make an error, own it.

What did Jesse Wiebe do before finding fulfillment in proofreading?

Jesse Wiebe struggled her way through retail jobs and an unsatisfying office job for years before finding fulfillment in proofreading. She had forgotten she wanted to be an editor when she was a child, until she came across a book that frustrated her to the point she wanted to throw it across the room.