F. Scott Fitzgerald had Maxwell Perkins. For that matter, Ernest Hemingway did as well. Harper Lee had Tay Hohoff. While Fitzgerald, Hemingway, and Lee are well-recognized authors, you likely are unfamiliar with the other names. Who were they? They were the editors. Without talented editors working alongside authors, many classic novels might never have been published at all, or if they had been, they would not be nearly as polished nor as enjoyable. In some cases, they might not even have turned into classics that have stood the test of time.
An editor works behind the scenes with the writer to correct errors in grammar, subject-verb agreement, spelling, capitalization, and punctuation, among other things. Editors work with authors to produce the best work possible. That’s their job. If highly talented writers need editors, so too do student authors. That is why the Structure and Style for Students writing courses include a Letter to the Editor, which is intended to be presented to the student’s editor in Unit 2: Writing from Notes.
Occasionally, we have a parent or teacher contact our office to ask for clarity about this letter. Some question whether this is a job for a professional editor (no) or if it is a requirement that needs to be met (yes). They wonder who is supposed to take on the job and what exactly the job entails. In a nutshell, this is what we intend by this letter.
- Students should always have someone review their drafts before submitting the assignments for grading.
- The editor is frequently a parent. It may also be a grandparent, older sibling, or even a neighbor.
- The editor’s job is simply to correct grammar, capitalization, and spelling mistakes.
Editing a student’s written work shouldn’t require too much time per week. Generally it will occupy approximately fifteen minutes. Oh, and one more thing! Just as Maxwell Perkins and Tay Hohoff were paid for their services, so too should a student pay the editor. Payment for services rendered should be negotiated between the two parties. Perhaps payment will be taking the trash to the curb and bringing back the empty bins each week, or possibly it will be taking on the responsibility of emptying the dishwasher. Work out the remuneration together.
If you are the editor, keep in mind that less is better. Only edit obvious errors. Let awkwardness stand. At the rough draft stage of editing, hand the edited paper back to your student with a smile (no lecture, please!), and say, “Great job! Fix the edits and write it up!” You, dear editor, have fulfilled your task.
Here’s one more thought: enjoy reading the paper! It is rewarding to watch your student’s writing skills grow and know that you are a part of the success.
If you are interested in learning more about the editing process, check out these additional links.
- “Common Editing Marks”
- “Editing Matters!”
- “Perfecting Pieces for Publication—An Interview with Maria Gerber”
- "Letter to the Editor" (Episode 333)
by Jennifer Mauser
