Copy Editors

One of the best ways to explore the field of editing is to work on a school newspaper or other publication. The experience you gain will definitely be helpful, even if your duties are not strictly editorial. Being involved in writing, reporting, typesetting, proofreading, printing, or any other task will help you to understand editing and how it relates to the entire field of publishing.

If you cannot work for the school paper, try to land a part-time job with a local newspaper or newsletter. If that does not work, you might want to publish your own newsletter or blog. There is nothing like trying to put together a small publication to make you understand how publishing works. You may try combining another interest with your interest in editing. For example, if you are interested in environmental issues, you might want to start a newsletter or blog that deals with environmental problems and solutions in your community.

Another useful project is keeping a journal. In fact, any writing project will be helpful, since editing and writing are inextricably linked. Write something every day. Try to rework your writing until it is as good as you can make it. Try different kinds of writing, such as letters to the editor, short stories, poetry, essays, comedic prose, and plays.

ACES: The Society for Editing offers a wide variety of resources for aspiring and professional copy editors at its Web site (https://aceseditors.org). These include articles about copyediting, a blog, a guide for new editors, a resources list, editing guidelines, a newsletter, and suggested books and Web sites. The society also offers membership to college students who are pursuing course work in communications.