Copy editor

As a copy editor, you could:

• correct spelling, grammar and punctuation errors in drafts
•  pass editorial and revision notes to authors
•  work on text for magazine and book covers
•  check transcripts for video and audio publications
•  make sure the text and content follows the publication's ‘house style’
•  work closely with reporters, designers and commissioning editors
•  check for potential legal issues like libel or breach of copyright
•  send completed pages to the printers

• knowledge of English language
• excellent written communication skills
• knowledge of media production and communication
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to work well with others
• excellent verbal communication skills
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• the ability to organise your time and workload
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• an apprenticeship
• working towards this role
• specialist training courses with professional bodies

With experience, you could become a:

• features writer
•  chief sub-editor
•  production editor
•  editorial manager

You could also become a commissioning editor, working with authors, literary agents and publishers to develop new content.

You might decide to be a freelance editor, working on different types of publication.