Editor how-to

How to Edit a Story in Three Passes

Passes keep editing focused.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Passes keep editing focused. In short: read; edit; copyedit, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Read for structure.

  2. Edit for clarity.

  3. Copyedit for style.

  4. Fact-check.

  5. Write the headline.

  6. Read once more.

Safety reminders for editors

  • Avoid defamation
  • Check facts
  • Respect copyright
  • Protect sources

Deadline · Style guide · Byline · Copyright · Freelance · Copyedit: see the full editor glossary.

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