How to Become an Editor

Whether your dream is to become a writer, or you just love working with words, a career in editing is a great way to enter the writing and publishing industries. You should also keep in mind that “Editors in the U.S. generally earn a median annual wage of approximately ($75,260) as of May 2024, with employment projected to grow 1% from 2024 to 2030“ (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). In this article, we’ll walk through the steps it takes to build a career in editing.

Step One

Start by earning a bachelor’s degree in English, writing, journalism, or a related field. At Cottey, English majors develop strong writing, analysis, and communication skills, essential for any future editor. 

Step Two

Gaining real-world experience is key, so many editors will begin by working on student publications, writing centers, internships, or freelance projects. These opportunities help you learn how to give feedback, collaborate with writers, and meet deadlines.

Step Three

Most editing roles require familiarity with industry tools and standards. This includes learning style guides like APA, or MLA, as well as software such as Google Workspace, Microsoft Word, and other content management systems.

Step Four

Once you’ve built your skills and experience, you can begin applying for editing positions. This usually involves creating a portfolio by gathering writing or editing samples and highlighting your strengths in communication, detail‑orientation, and revision.

Step Five

Now you wait to be interviewed and hired by an editing firm or publishing house. And then… edit till your hearts content!