As a writer, you might report for a newspaper or magazine, research and write for a technical or trade journal or work in public relations. Some of your writing may be creative, but mostly you will use your skills to craft accurate and concise information. As an editor for a newspaper or magazine, you would select, edit and organize material for publication in a book, magazine, newspaper, technical manual or trade journa and co-ordinate publication activities. Editors in newspapers and magazines almost always begin as writers, gaining experience along the way. In publishing companies, you can work your way up through the ranks, beginning as an editorial assistant. New technology such as word processors and personal computers makes some editorial and writing tasks faster and more efficient. Free-lance writers often need to work at other jobs to subsidize their income.

WHAT YOU NEED:

There are several ways to begin your career as a writer or editor. You could start right from high school and learn on the job, or take a degree program in journalism, mass communication or English literature from a university. Community colleges offer programs in broadcast journalism and communication arts. Some have specialized courses in editing and production, as well as creative writing studies. Most employers prefer you to have a university degree showing your interests in several disciplines. You also need to be able to get along well with people and have good skill in research and organization. Any practice of journalism while at school will stand you in good stead.

SALARY:
$41,000 to $48,000