Wednesday 18 October 2017

The Difference Between Creative And Technical Editors

By Amy King


While creative writers often edit work on a regular basis, some do hire others to do the editing on books or manuscripts. Whereas, most often Technical Editors work for a hospital, scientific company, school or technology company. As such, while creative writers and assistants often work in a number of different genres, those working in these other fields often work in a number of different areas.

Whereas most editing in the creative area is done by assistant or junior staff members. In some cases, writers also outsource editing jobs through a number of freelance websites. Whereas, while there are some technical editing positions available, these positions generally require the individual be on-site. For, the turn around on edits and revisions on the technical side is often quicker than on the creative side.

It is also important that those working in this area have an in-depth knowledge of the information associated with a project. Otherwise, it can often be difficult to assure that the message can reach an intended audience. As there are often a number of different projects over the course of a career, it is also important that these individuals have the ability to learn and adapt to new methods, terms and projects over time.

Most often, a company, hospital or other entity is going to have a set of guidelines which editors and writers must follow on a regular basis. These guidelines are often based on a number of factors. When it comes to technology, most often the guidelines are set by those requesting the documents or guides related to the project.

Most individuals working in this position check for grammatical accuracy, to assure any content which is factual in nature is correct, and that the intended audience can understand the message behind the writing. In addition, most also check for clarity and concise sentences when it comes to user guides, drawings and specifications. Lastly, most editors are the last link in assuring a document is completed and delivered on time.

Ultimately, the individual reviews documentation for accuracy in explaining complicated concepts and procedures. When working in a medical environment, medical terminology is essential as grammar and wording are often specific to the environment. If employed at an Internet Technology company, the individual might very well develop user guides and online help information from a number of drawings and specifications. Whereas, if reviewing a scientific journal, then the individual will most likely be editing for grammar, style and accuracy.

While not often, there are some individuals whom have excelled rapidly in these positions. As a result, a few of these lucky individuals have been promoted to junior or senior tech writers on a project. In some cases, employers have felt the individual proved oneself to be as good a writer as editor over time. Whereas, in others, an individual may have shown great resolve in editing and communicating information over the course of a project.

Whether working in the medical, scientific or technical area, these positions require individuals who are self-sufficient. For, there are many companies which now allow individuals to work on-site at different times as long as one works the number of hours required per week while meeting deadlines. As such, individuals can often be alone in the office while working on a number of projects, thus the need for a strong sense of independence and self-control.




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