Being able to write well isn’t the only thing it takes to be a writer. I’ve found that being a valuable editor has helped me with my writing as well.
Editors have a keen eye for a troubled story. They know the difference between when to use a comma and when to leave the words alone. Their ability to find issues before publication can be critical.
My first editing job started in the fall of 2016. I worked as an assistant nonfiction editor for two semesters and loved it. I liked reading and helping stories become published. But something else caught my eye.
I noticed what went wrong. I knew how to come up with ideas to improve the story before it was even over. I could tell what made a story unique and what didn’t.
Seeing stories accepted or rejected helped me realize what my stories needed. My stories became stronger because I could see what stood out from the others.
Now, as the nonfiction editor, I see more stories and more opportunities.
Robin LeeAnn 