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How to Copyedit a Newspaper or Magazine

The job of a copy editor is to make sure articles meet the style standards for a newspaper or magazine. Copy editors also "fact check" articles and make sure there aren't any inconsistencies. It requires a strong knowledge of grammar, spelling and punctuation rules, as well as knowledge of AP (Associated Press) style or other stylebooks. AP style is the format of writing used by newspapers and most magazines to create a standard for all writers. If you have a strong knowledge of English and AP style, copy editing can be a good way to be involved in newspaper or magazine publishing from behind the scenes.

Instructions

    • 1

      Read each article completely. Look for consistency within each article and that all the facts are accurate. Make sure the articles meet style standards and that the style is consistent within each article as well as through the publication.

    • 2

      Reread each article. Pay attention to grammar, spelling and punctuation. Do not skim any articles or you may miss an error.

    • 3

      Mark corrections in each article that need to be made using standardized editing marks. A list of the marks can be found in most major stylebooks. This includes any errors you find and may include suggestions to rewrite something so it makes better sense or flows better with the rest of the article.

    • 4

      Give the articles to the writers to rework based on your edits. Explain any complex corrections or detailed rewrites to the writer and answer any questions about your editing.

    • 5

      Read the edited articles completely. Rereading the articles will ensure that you have caught any errors you may have missed the first time and will ensure you catch errors that may have come up in the rewriting process.

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