Many writers are very proprietorial about their work. They believe every word they write down has a purpose and can't be removed or reworked. This can be especially true with technical writers. They are not meant to be creative. Their job is to instruct and teach. Sometimes, when they see a technical editors going over their work they cringe believing they are experts in their respective fields.
A specialist writer is often an expert in the field he or she writes on, but the editor is probably somewhat of an expert as well, In addition, the editor usually has a background in language, writing, or journalism. An editor is responsible for looking a writing drafts and scrutinizing them for accuracy and form. A work is edited to correct grammar, punctuation, and clarity. The editor will proofread after the initial editing to ensure all corrections have been made.
An editor has to think like the people who will read the documents they are editing. These individuals are reading for information rather than pleasure. An editor must make sure the document is structured correctly and in such a way that the reader can easily find specific topics or areas of instruction. Any warnings or disclaimers have to be clearly defined for the reader.
Part of the responsibility the editor has to the publisher is to keep a project within a specific budget and meet agreed upon deadlines. Compliance with standards and practices is the editor's responsibility. They must be familiar with previously published works and ensure new editions are compatible.
If you're interested in becoming a successful editor, you must learn how to work with all kinds of writers. You have to be prepared to defend your editing choices. It is easier to do this if you are involved in the process from the beginning. If everyone has a common goal, difficult decisions are easier to promote.
You might be a great writer, but rewriting another's copy to suit your own style is not your function as an editor. You have to take care not to change the meaning of technical copy. If you feel strongly about a change, base it on facts and research, not instinct. Relaying changes to writers in sections is often more efficient than sending the whole manuscript marked up.
Communication is key when you are working with writers. Having a respectful attitude is critical. You will have more success if you make suggestions instead of demands and improvements rather than obvious changes. Works that are collaborative efforts are more likely to be successful than those that are handled with frustration and anger.
Editors have an important function in the publishing world. They are not just there to make the writer's life difficult. Working together toward a common goal is the best way to succeed.
A specialist writer is often an expert in the field he or she writes on, but the editor is probably somewhat of an expert as well, In addition, the editor usually has a background in language, writing, or journalism. An editor is responsible for looking a writing drafts and scrutinizing them for accuracy and form. A work is edited to correct grammar, punctuation, and clarity. The editor will proofread after the initial editing to ensure all corrections have been made.
An editor has to think like the people who will read the documents they are editing. These individuals are reading for information rather than pleasure. An editor must make sure the document is structured correctly and in such a way that the reader can easily find specific topics or areas of instruction. Any warnings or disclaimers have to be clearly defined for the reader.
Part of the responsibility the editor has to the publisher is to keep a project within a specific budget and meet agreed upon deadlines. Compliance with standards and practices is the editor's responsibility. They must be familiar with previously published works and ensure new editions are compatible.
If you're interested in becoming a successful editor, you must learn how to work with all kinds of writers. You have to be prepared to defend your editing choices. It is easier to do this if you are involved in the process from the beginning. If everyone has a common goal, difficult decisions are easier to promote.
You might be a great writer, but rewriting another's copy to suit your own style is not your function as an editor. You have to take care not to change the meaning of technical copy. If you feel strongly about a change, base it on facts and research, not instinct. Relaying changes to writers in sections is often more efficient than sending the whole manuscript marked up.
Communication is key when you are working with writers. Having a respectful attitude is critical. You will have more success if you make suggestions instead of demands and improvements rather than obvious changes. Works that are collaborative efforts are more likely to be successful than those that are handled with frustration and anger.
Editors have an important function in the publishing world. They are not just there to make the writer's life difficult. Working together toward a common goal is the best way to succeed.
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