Steps to Becoming a Certified Copy Editor

Jann Seal reports:

"Becoming a certified copy editor is a lot like working in the rodeo. You have to be able to lasso a writer's creatively expressed words and rein them in, all employing correct grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, accuracy, clarity and flow...A copy editor who is certified may gain additional confidence, since the certification represents further study in the field and adds prestige to a copywriter's resume; it may qualify that copywriter for a higher salary. Copy editors who are certified have the flexibility of getting professionally certified as well working online...A degree in journalism from a college or university, having strong writing skills, being well-read and having expertise in a particular field such as science, technology, medicine, fashion and politics are important for being hired as a copy editor. Getting a copy editor certification means you've taken extra steps toward improving your qualifications. In most cases, those steps mean taking specific courses either through a college or through professional organizations...Copy editors go deep into the text, correcting errors, establishing consistency with the publication's standards, fact-checking and examining the details of what has been written. A proofreader reads for content and looks for formatting errors. He often works on the final manuscript or typeset publication before it's printed for publication. If you're interested in becoming a proofreader, consider joining proofreading organizations...Working on high school, college or local newsletters or publications is a good start toward becoming a copy editor. Comfort in working digitally, using electronic tools and understanding [copy editing] software improve the prospects of getting work. Freelance editors face the stress of continuously finding work, learning the techniques of different employers and working under often difficult deadlines...Freelance certified copy editors can earn a substantial income as they link to content producers and the jobs they offer. Passing a skills test is often the first step. Paid by the piece, the freelancer has the ability to spread his opportunities to several employers and, as long as he meets their deadlines and as long as his work is professionally acceptable, he can work as much as he needs."