Sub-editor
Check written text before it's published in newspapers, magazines and on websites.
Also known as: sub editor
About the job
What it's like
Are you looking to build a career in media? If you have have strong spelling and grammar skills along with an eye for a catchy headline, you could become a sub-editor.
In this role, you'll check written text before it's published in newspapers, magazines, brochures and on websites. You'll trim articles to fit the space you've allocated it, edit them into house style then add eye-catching headlines and picture captions.
As a sub-editor, you'll work closely with journalists, editors, designers, production staff and printers. You'll need to have a good understanding of laws relating to media and publishing.
With experience, you could move into a senior editorial role or become the chief sub-editor. Many sub-editors are self-employed and pick up shifts across several different publications.
Your tasks might include:
checking that articles are correct and do not break laws such as libel and copyright – you'll take up any queries with the reporter or journalist who wrote the story
rewriting articles if needed to make them clearer or shorter
tweaking articles to make sure they follow the house style
writing headlines, captions and sub-headings which lead into articles
making sure articles are in the right place on each page
using page layout and image editing software like Quark Express, InDesign and Photoshop
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
National Union of Journalists (NUJ) – explore the largest independent journalism union in the world
Huzzle – check out this comprehensive guide to becoming a newspaper sub-editor
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Select qualification level(s)
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
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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.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- time management
- attention to detail
- researching
- observation
- innovative
- designing
- creative
- written communication
- working with technology
- 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:
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English
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Media
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Modern Studies
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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 formal entry requirements, but most sub-editors have a media-based qualification from college or university. You can use the My World of Work course search to find degrees or college courses.
University
A degree may be helpful for getting into this job. You could study subjects, such as:
Journalism
Media and Communication or Media Studies
Broadcast Journalism
Multimedia Journalism
English or English Literature
International Relations or Politics
Sociology
History
Publishing
College
Getting qualifications at college, such as an HNC or HND, could help you find a job or progress to more advanced study. Useful subjects include:
Practical Journalism
Media and Communication
Creative Industries: Media and Communication
Social Sciences
Creative Writing
Work
Many sub-editors have experience working as a journalist. In fact, some sub-editors who are self-employed will combine sub-editing work with journalism assignments.
If you're already a journalist, or are training to become one, you're in a good position to secure work as a sub-editor.
Being able to show a portfolio of work is useful when applying for jobs and courses. This could be a selection of articles you've written or edited.
Volunteering experience in a news room or similar environment may help you find paid shifts or a permanent role. Contact local newspapers or magazines to ask for work experience. You could also use Volunteer Scotland to find opportunities.
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