You ask great questions! Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Editing certificate program.

Q: As a graduate of the Editing certificate program, what did you take away from the program?

A: I had a decent amount of experience with editing when I entered the certificate program. Then, as now, I worked as the Web managing editor of a product and news site. I was very familiar with how to make content work for the Web, but I felt I should refine my technical editing skills. So I took the Editing certificate classes in 2003-2004 to hone these skills. What did I gain?

• I can find what I need in The Chicago Manual of Style -- and tears are no longer shed during the process! I can navigate other major style guides, as well.
• I communicate more efficiently and effectively with my writers.
• I edit documents using a specific process that fits my deadline schedule and timelines.
• I know how to build an in-house editorial style guide.
• I can specify/name the grammatical error and know how to support my position ... which sure beats, "I know it's wrong, but I don't know why."
• I have a better grasp on the inner workings of the publishing industry.
• I maintain a list of print and online resources for editors. It's a pretty big list.
• I am able to make a strong editorial argument for changes that will positively impact the business and the bottom line.

Q: How does technology relate to my editing career goals?

A: I believe it's important to understand how technology can make your job easier. As a student in the program, I saw some students get sidetracked by technology -- mostly MS Word. In fact, it stifled their ability to focus on editing text. As a result, I worked with the program's board to create a course for those who wanted a better understanding of the tools they will use as an editor.

I teach two workshops for the Editing program, "The Web-Savvy Editor" and "MS Word for Editors." These workshops address how editors can maximize the awesome technology tools available to them, such as MS Word and the Web. 

If you don't understand Microsoft Word and you have to use it to edit a document, you're probably wasting more time than you are saving time. Acknowledge your skill gaps and address them accordingly.

Q: What can I do to maximize the learning experience provided by the Editing certificate program?

1. Ask a lot of questions of your instructors. Each has a unique background and niche and the instructors are here to share their experiences and knowledge. This is especially important if you are switching careers and need to get a feel for the profession.
2. Don't ignore an idea or option until you have done your research. There are several avenues for editors. You must open the door and at least take a peek before you can close it! You may be surprised by where this leads you.
3. Carefully consider which (optional) courses best fit your career goals. Speak to the instructors in advance if you have any questions on how the course will benefit you.
4. Write down every single resource that is recommended to you. There is no need to rush out and buy every book; check out books from the library. King County Libraries has an excellent catalog.
5. Bookmark editing-related Web sites on your home computer and organize them in a "Editing Resources" folder. Subscribe to email newsletters/listservs, even if it's just a brief time period to check it out.
6. Network with fellow students!