I did it – finally – I signed up to the Society for Editors and Proofreaders introduction to copy-editing. I now have six lovely lessons that will (hopefully) put me on the right road to becoming a truly professional copy-editor (with a lot of practice obviously).
I’m enjoying the course so far, although I have completely ignored their advice to undertake the two proofreading courses as I have no desire to ever become a proofreader or work with BSI symbols, though I fear both will rear their heads at some point through my training.
I have read through the first lesson and had a ‘go’ at the exercise with some surprising results. I’m not sure copy-editing is what I thought it was, but I’m sure the remaining part of the course will enlighten me and look forward to continuing my learning.
Hi, I’m interested in your progress to becoming an editor. I understand that you’ve spent a year editing manuscripts. Was that part of your internship or did you do that on the side?
I am volunteering for two independent publishers, one as a reader, filling in reports on manuscripts. The other, I haven’t started yet, is strictly commenting on submissions.
I, however, really want to spend more time doing development edits on manuscripts since this is what I want to do. (Romance editor)
However, I know it’s important to have credentials so clients feel confident in your service.
I’m actually working on a proofreading course even though, as like you mentioned, I have no intention of becoming a proofreader. It seems to be the first step before starting copyediting courses.
Good luck with your course. I was interested in doing that one, too.
It was the internship that ignited my interest in editing and I did that the year before I started the free editing. I asked on a large Facebook writing group I frequent if anyone would like a beta-read in exchange for a testimonial and it grew from there. I used the time to not only beta-read, but learn what I enjoyed, what I disliked, and to improve the service I offered. I chose to specialise in science fiction and fantasy early on, although my swaying between being ‘just’ a developmental editor or incorporating copy-editing has been a longer process (I prefer ‘just’ developmental). I’ve met some lovely authors and although I’ve helped them out, they’ve helped me too – letting me know what they did and didn’t like, and where I could improve.
What types of things did you do on your internahip?
I read submissions and accepted/rejected them and was involved with editing. It was online as the company are in America. I’ve sent you an email by the way 🙂