An editor is a person that writes and/or approves articles for publications, websites, training manuals, or anything that deals with the printed word. Editors can work at various places, ranging from Fortune 500 companies, to colleges and universities, or magazines and editorials. Sometimes editors can work as freelancers, submitting their articles for publication to magazines. However, freelancers have to really be aggressive in finding editing opportunities, and must have the discipline to be patient and persistent in finding and excelling at their craft as jobs and/or gigs may seem far and in between at times.
Usually editors work indoors on computers. They can work in offices, newsrooms, or even at their own homes. Editors usually sometimes write articles, but usually proofread, rewrite, and review articles for accuracy, references, and makes sure that the article will not harm the organization. For freelance work, usually no formal education is not needed, just proofreading and writing skills. However for most formal organizations a four year degree in English or Journalism is needed. Major publications such as news media, and magazines, usually experience as a writer/editor is greatly recommended and essential.
With editors, there is really no such thing as a typical workday. Usually there are no set hours, as editors have to work with deadlines, which could mean more than often late nights and early mornings.
Editor Tasks
- Review ideas, suggest improvements, verify facts and references and perform other accuracy tasks.
- Oversee overall production aspects of the work in progress.
- Proofread, rewrite and edit the work various kinds of authors and writers.