Will “Copy Editor” be Automated?

Core Skills & Abilities

• Consult reference books or secure aid of readers to check references with rules of grammar and composition.

• Correct or record omissions, errors, or inconsistencies found.

• Typeset and measure dimensions, spacing, and positioning of page elements, such as copy and illustrations, to verify conformance to specifications, using printer's ruler or layout software.

• Mark copy to indicate and correct errors in type, arrangement, grammar, punctuation, or spelling, using standard printers' marks.

• Read proof sheets aloud, calling out punctuation marks and spelling unusual words and proper names.

• Write original content, such as headlines, cutlines, captions, and cover copy.

• Consult with authors and editors regarding manuscript changes and suggestions.

• Archive documents, conduct research, and read copy, using the internet and various computer programs.

• Read corrected copies or proofs to ensure that all corrections have been made.

• Compare information or figures on one record against same data on other records, or with original copy, to detect errors.

• Route proofs with marked corrections to authors, editors, typists, or typesetters for correction or reprinting.