Editors are responsible for reviewing, rewriting, and editing the works of writers. Editors are employed in a wide variety of publications like newspapers, book publishing companies, magazines, and many others. The daily duties of an editor vary from position to position, some editors are still responsible for writing content while others exclusively revise and edit the work of writers.
An important responsibility of an editor is to find and evaluate writing ideas. This may be coming up with story ideas for a newspaper and assigning various writers to write on it, or reviewing a proposal for a book. Editors are often responsible for finding talented writers to work for their organization.
Other duties vary depending on the job specification. A managing editor is responsible for daily operations of a newspaper, an assignment editor assigns reporters to stories, a copy editor is responsible for editing text and revising writing, an executive editor manages other editors and has the final say on what is published.
Most editors have previously been writers, and most have a bachelor’s degree in English, communications, or journalism. Be sure to look into the courses being offered in many locations. Those looking to gain experience and training in the field should look into working or volunteering for a local community paper.