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Can you spot a misplaced comma from a mile away? Do your friends and family sometimes call you the grammar police?
If you have a passion for accuracy in all things literary, then a career in copy editing may be a great choice for you!
What do copy editors do?
Light copy editing involves correcting errors in spelling, grammar, writing mechanics, usage, and reference items such as graphs and tables.
In today’s market, fewer jobs require light editing because modern word processing programs have built-in spelling and grammar checkers that identify many of these mistakes.
Medium copy editing includes all the tasks of light editing, as well as checking for consistent formatting and appropriate language use.
At this level, you will also flag content-related issues such as plot discrepancies and information that you know to be factually incorrect.
Heavy copy editing includes all the tasks of light and medium editing. It also involves restructuring sentences and paragraphs for improved readability and ensuring a consistent tone.
Quiz
Congratulations! You've landed your first job as a copy editor for a book publisher. Your manager has sent you a manuscript with directions to perform a medium level of copy editing. Which of the following should you focus on? Select all that apply.
A medium copy edit will include all the tasks of light copy editing, including checking for proper writing mechanics. You'll also need to flag any biased language and query the author on factual errors or inconsistencies in the plot.
Did you know?
It’s not your job as a copy editor to verify the factual accuracy of every manuscript you edit! However, if you have expertise in the subject matter, you can (and should) query the author to check the facts.
What skills will I need for pursuing a career as a copy editor?
Did you know?
When applying for jobs as a copy editor, you can expect potential employers to review your educational background and experience, and to give you an editing test as well.
What education and experience do I need?
Many copy editors have degrees in journalism, communications, or the language they plan to work in, 
A number of universities and professional organizations offer online courses and certifications in copy editing, and some companies even offer internships and on-the-job training.
Based on the information provided, which of the following candidates would be the best fit for a job as a copy editor at a major publishing house in New York?
James has a journalism degree from a prestigious university and knows the AP style guide by heart.
He's annoyed by writing styles that are overly casual and tends to feel that his way is the only right way.
Luc has worked for the past five years as a copy editor at a major publishing house in Paris.
He’s been studying English for a couple of years now and would love a unique challenge in a new city!
Breanna is a former English teacher who recently completed an online certification program in copy editing.
She feels that the problem-solving and communication skills that she developed as a teacher will translate well to a career in copy editing.
Jennifer is a recent high school graduate who loves creative writing and wants to be a published author one day.
She plans to take a gap year before college and thinks that working as a copy editor would give her great insight into the publishing industry.
Quiz
Select the candidate who would be the best fit for the job.
All of the candidates have some qualities that would make them a good fit for the copy editor position! However, James seems to be lacking in flexibility and interpersonal skills, Jennifer lacks the education and experience necessary for the job, and Luc is still learning English. Breanna's certification, combined with her background in helping her students to develop their writing skills, will make her an excellent candidate for this position.
What employment opportunities will I find as a copy editor?
Did you know?
Worried about the impact of AI on copy editing jobs? You're not alone, but many industry professionals claim that there will always be a need for highly skilled copywriters, editors, and proofreaders, particularly those with specialized skills and knowledge.
How much money can I expect to make?
Did you know?
Salaries in the field can vary widely based on factors such as education, experience, and expertise in specialized subjects!
So is copy editing the right career choice for me?
You may love it if...
You're passionate about the written word and like to spend all day reading.
You're comfortable working alone at a computer for most of the day.
You enjoy the challenge of balancing accuracy with respect for each author's intentions and writing style.
You may hate it if...
You want a job that allows you to be physically active.
You like to spend most of your time interacting with people.
You're concerned about the low pay relative to other jobs that require a similar level of education.
Long-term security is important to you and you worry about being replaced by AI (artificial intelligence).
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This Byte has been authored by
Ginger Thomassiny
Spanish & Leadership Skills Instructor