Those interested in the field of professional editing may want to consider obtaining certification. While it might appear on the surface to be an unnecessary investment of time and resources, copyediting certification offers a number of benefits.
What is Copyediting?
First off, copyediting is different from proofreading, which merely corrects errors of grammar and punctuation. Copyediting is much more in-depth and has very specific procedures. It focuses on improving style, formatting and accuracy of language and mechanics in writing. The goal is to fix inconsistencies and irregularities as well as catch errors.
While someone who is talented at catching grammatical errors can certainly work as a successful proofreader, a copyeditor is expected to have a more comprehensive educational background. Certification provides an aspiring copyeditor with all of the necessary tools and resources to do the job.
Improved Credibility as an Editor
Firstly, certification provides much needed credibility for clients. When selling services as a copyeditor, it elevates an individual’s status significantly to show credentials including a completed educational program in his or her particular field of specialty.
Most copyediting certification programs, like the one offered through UCSD Extension, require a commitment of two years or more. This shows potential clients and employers that you are dedicated to the field and have spent a significant amount of time and resources honing your skills.
Justifiable Action for Edits
Editors cannot simply rely on “gut instinct” to make decisions. When correcting a document, changes must be made based on rules, best practices, or specific requirements outlined by the style guide being used. Most clients (whether writers or publishers) don’t want an editor to make changes to the work frivolously.
Edits should always be justified and defensible. When someone questions the actions taken by a copyeditor, it is most effective to have supporting documentation. This is not to say that the role involves no level of nuance and personal judgment. Surely a successful copyeditor must have strong instincts and intuition. But a copyeditor must be prepared to explain the reason for every edit.
Understanding Copyediting Procedures
The field of copyediting has very specific procedures, including a comprehensive mark-up system all its own. Many writers and publishers still prefer editors to work on hard copy documents which require a set of handwritten symbols be used to make corrections on each physical page. While no two copyeditors have identical markings, there are certain conventions that are universally understood by professionals in the field. Becoming fluent in this “language” will greatly expand the kind of work a copyeditor can accept.
Additionally, there are a number of different levels of copyediting (light, medium, heavy or in-between) that can be requested by a client or employer, as well as a wide variety of types of copyediting (including substantive, developmental and mechanical among others). Understanding the definitions and procedures involved with each of these is an absolute necessity for any aspiring copyeditor.
Creating a Network of Fellow Editors
Lastly, becoming a certified copyeditor introduces you to a large network of professionals in your field. Whether attending classes in-person or online, a student can create connections with fellow copyeditors and develop long-term professional relationships.
For information on how to begin the process of obtaining certification in the field of copyediting, check out the article titled "How to Become a Certified Copyeditor."
Christine Scivicque - Chrissy has been a passionate student of personal development for over 15 years. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration ...
