The Copy Desk
How to Keep the Copy Desk Off Your Back
Good editing begins with you, the writer. While it’s a copy editor’s job to catch mistakes, it’s your job not to make them in the first place. Never leave anything unchecked in your story or expect someone else will correct the mistake. Remember, that’s your job. Here’s a few helpful hints:
Follow the four “C’s.” Is your story:
Clear?
Who’s talking? What’s it about? Are the transitions smooth? Does the lead adequately introduce the story? Will this be apparent to everyone reading the story? Try to anticipate questions a reader may have. And don’t let creativity get in the way of clarity.
Concise?
Don’t use four words when one will suffice. Don’t dance around what’s important; get to the point. One person’s delayed lead is another’s buried lead.
Correct?
Did you double and triple check the key facts of the story?
Complete?
Are all the facts presented substantiated? Are all sides of the story represented? If not, do you explain why?
Also:
1. Follow styles, both in-house and from the Associated Press. Ninety percent of our styles are found in the AP stylebook and Webster’s New World Collegiate Dictionary. The company maintains an online stylebook as well.
2. KEEP IT SIMPLE. A basic writing premise is one thought per sentence. If you find yourself cramming too much into one sentence, such as offsetting one or more clauses that aren’t necessarily related, it might be time to rewrite the sentence.
3. CQ items when necessary. This goes for unusual names (Jesica instead of Jessica), titles and really anything that you’d think would make the reader go, “That has to be wrong,” but in fact, it is correct. And, if you put CQ next to something, you’re telling the editor that you did indeed look this up and have confirmed it’s correct.
4. Avoid editorializing. Be careful what words you use to be descriptive. Subtle judgments and opinions have a way of creeping into stories. If you’re using too many adverbs and adjectives, that’s a good sign that you’re not being as objective as you should. Simple words such as “only” or “just” are good examples of things to avoid.
Most of all remember, no matter what, we’re still likely to ask you questions. Consider it part of the job and try to take even the seemingly silly ones in stride.
- Scott Muller, Herald News, May, 2006
