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Writers and Authors

Originate and prepare written material, such as scripts, stories, advertisements, and other material.

What you’d do

  • Write fiction or nonfiction prose, such as short stories, novels, biographies, articles, descriptive or critical analyses, and essays.
  • Revise written material to meet personal standards and to satisfy needs of clients, publishers, directors, or producers.
  • Present drafts and ideas to clients.
  • Edit or rewrite existing written material as necessary, and submit written material for approval by supervisor, editor, or publisher.
  • Conduct research to obtain factual information and authentic detail, using sources such as newspaper accounts, diaries, and interviews.
  • Vary language and tone of messages based on product and medium.
  • Write articles, bulletins, sales letters, speeches, and other related informative, marketing and promotional material.
  • Write advertising material for use by publication, broadcast, or internet media to promote the sale of goods and services.

Skills that matter

  • Writing
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Active Listening
  • Speaking
  • Time Management
  • Critical Thinking

How to get there

Considerable preparation: most need a four-year bachelor's degree

Also called

  • Author
  • Copywriter
  • Freelance Writer
  • Writer
  • Advertising Copywriter
  • Advertising Writer

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