Copy editor
Spot any errors in text written for books, journals and magazines and make changes so it is ready to be published for readers.
Also known as: proof reader
About the job
What it's like
You would check text written for books, journals and magazines, take out any errors and make sure it’s ready to be published for readers.
You’d carefully read the author’s manuscript (or 'copy') and make any necessary changes. You’d make sure the meaning is clear for readers.
You’d speak with the author to tactfully explain what changes you have made and why. You’d also ask them for more information if there’s anything in the text you don’t understand.
You would:
Correct errors in spelling, grammar and punctuation
Check the length of the text matches the publisher’s requirements
Make sure the text is in the publisher's or publication’s house style
Make sure that the meaning of the text is clear
Check that references are quoted correctly and pictures have the right captions
Check for possible legal issues, such as libel, partiality or breach of copyright
Resolve queries with the author
Consult with the author if extensive revision of the text is needed
Most of your work would be done on a computer but you may also sometimes work on a printout, or hard copy, of the author’s typed or word-processed manuscript.
You could work on books but you might also edit articles for journals and text for brochures, instruction manuals and websites. You might need to work quickly to meet tight deadlines.
Hours
As a copy editor working in-house, you would usually work normal office hours, Monday to Friday. Your days may be longer at busy times or when you have tight deadlines. As a freelance copy editor, you would have more freedom to decide your own hours. You would still need to meet publishing deadlines.
Environment
As a copy editor working in-house, you would work in an office. Working freelance, you could be based at home.
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Related industries
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Digital technologies Creative
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Top specialised skills
These are the top specialised skills that have been found in job vacancies across Scotland. From March 2024 to March 2025.
- proofreading
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- understanding
- time management
- attention to detail
- researching
- observation
- creative
- written communication
- listening
- cooperating
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
English
Foundation Apprenticeship: Creative and Digital Media
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
There are no set qualifications required for entry to this role but many copy editors study subjects such as journalism, English, advertising, communication, marketing or media.
You can enter some National Certificate or National Qualification courses (SCQF 2-6) with no formal qualifications but most courses ask for National 4/5 qualifications (SCQF level 4/5).
You can enter Higher National Certificate (SCQF level 7) or Higher National Diploma courses (SCQF level 8) with National 4/5 qualifications and one to two Highers or equivalent qualifications.
Entry to a degree (SCQF level 9/10) usually requires National 5 qualifications and a minimum of four Highers or a relevant HNC/HND. Entry to a postgraduate qualification (SCQF level 11) require a relevant degree and may require experience.
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