Writers are more particular about their work than most. Since the process often comes hard to them, they tend to cherish the placement of each word. Technical writers can be even pickier because instead of creativity, they deal in concrete facts and data. It is not unusual to see one of them watch anxiously as technical editors go over their industry specific copy.
Scientific and instructional writers generally have a specific area of expertise that makes them qualified to write on certain topics. Editors are also experts in their field. Most of them have advanced degrees in journalism, editing, and language. They are adept at looking over writing drafts and checking for form and accuracy. They correct punctuation, grammar, and improve murky phrasing. An editor will also proofread edited copy to make sure all changes are made.
The editor has to be an advocate for the reader. The written copy must be clear, concise and easy to understand. Since the writing is technical and detailed in nature, it must be structured in such a way that it makes sense to someone skimming through the document looking for particular information. It is very important that any warnings or disclaimers be clearing outlined in the body of the document or annotated in a professional manner.
There are some editors who are also publishers. Other times an editor works for a publisher. Either way, in addition to actually editing copy, an editor is also responsible to the publisher for keeping all projects on time and under or on budget. They have to work with everyone on the project to make sure deadlines are met. The editor have to be familiar with the company's standard practices and ensure all writing is compliant.
If editing interests you as a career, in addition to a good education, you will have to learn how to communicate effectively with the writing community. You must have reasons for your editing choices in case the writer challenges you. If possible, you should be involved in a project at its inception. It is easier to defend hard decisions when everyone is familiar with the goals of a project and committed to achieving them.
You must remember that you are the editor not the writer. Imposing your own style on a document is not part of your job. It is important when you are editing specialized writing that you don't change the meaning of what you are reading. Changes you make must be based on facts and research. You should never change something based on instinct. It is sometimes easier to send your revisions to the writer in sections rather than sending the entire edit at one time.
Effective communication is key to success, no matter what your career. You will work with difficult writers. When this happens, you must tread carefully, offering suggestions rather than demands. Writers love to be reassured of their talent. If you can communicate that you are attempting to improve something that is already great, the changes will go down easier.
Every writer needs a good editor, whether they believe it or not. The editor's job is to help not to hinder or frustrate. When the two work together to achieve a common goal, success is almost assured.
Scientific and instructional writers generally have a specific area of expertise that makes them qualified to write on certain topics. Editors are also experts in their field. Most of them have advanced degrees in journalism, editing, and language. They are adept at looking over writing drafts and checking for form and accuracy. They correct punctuation, grammar, and improve murky phrasing. An editor will also proofread edited copy to make sure all changes are made.
The editor has to be an advocate for the reader. The written copy must be clear, concise and easy to understand. Since the writing is technical and detailed in nature, it must be structured in such a way that it makes sense to someone skimming through the document looking for particular information. It is very important that any warnings or disclaimers be clearing outlined in the body of the document or annotated in a professional manner.
There are some editors who are also publishers. Other times an editor works for a publisher. Either way, in addition to actually editing copy, an editor is also responsible to the publisher for keeping all projects on time and under or on budget. They have to work with everyone on the project to make sure deadlines are met. The editor have to be familiar with the company's standard practices and ensure all writing is compliant.
If editing interests you as a career, in addition to a good education, you will have to learn how to communicate effectively with the writing community. You must have reasons for your editing choices in case the writer challenges you. If possible, you should be involved in a project at its inception. It is easier to defend hard decisions when everyone is familiar with the goals of a project and committed to achieving them.
You must remember that you are the editor not the writer. Imposing your own style on a document is not part of your job. It is important when you are editing specialized writing that you don't change the meaning of what you are reading. Changes you make must be based on facts and research. You should never change something based on instinct. It is sometimes easier to send your revisions to the writer in sections rather than sending the entire edit at one time.
Effective communication is key to success, no matter what your career. You will work with difficult writers. When this happens, you must tread carefully, offering suggestions rather than demands. Writers love to be reassured of their talent. If you can communicate that you are attempting to improve something that is already great, the changes will go down easier.
Every writer needs a good editor, whether they believe it or not. The editor's job is to help not to hinder or frustrate. When the two work together to achieve a common goal, success is almost assured.
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