Make Copy Shine By Editing 2023

Example: Staffer writes first draft of story • Self-edit • Peer-edit • First draft submitted to editor; editor makes corrections and returns to staffer • Staffer makes corrections and submits revised draft to editor again • Editor makes corrections and then passes on to the editor-in-chief • Editor-in-chief makes corrections and returns to staffer • Staffer makes final corrections and submits final draft to editor To make sure every story is edited thoroughly, a solid editing process should be in place. Then stick with it. A system that works for your staff will help keep staffers and editors accountable and communicating clearly. EDITING HIERARCHY

• Editor gives final approval and passes to editor-in-chief • Editor-in-chief gives final approval and passes to adviser

Create your own flow chart system for your staff.

SUBJECTIVE EDITING First word is powerful and interesting

OBJECTIVE EDITING

editor name: _______________ writer name: ___________________ deadline: _____

AP style rules

No to-be verbs (all writing in active voice) Names spelled correctly

Impact lead is used, not summary

Angle is specific and reinforced throughout story

Quotes convey feelings, not facts

Correct grades and position titles

Said is used as the attribution verb

Spelling and capitalization

Transitions do not repeat information in quotes Transitions do not transcribe interview (“when asked…”) Word choice and usage

No exclamation points

No comma splices

Commas are inside quotation marks

Apostrophes used correctly in contractions Third person and past tense

No clichés or editorializing

All superfluous language has been removed

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