Writers and Authors

What this job is

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

What they do day to day

• 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.
• Write to customers in their terms and on their level so that the script, story, or advertisement message is more readily received.
• Prepare works in appropriate format for publication, and send them to publishers or producers.

Skills and knowledge that matter most

Importance rated by people working in the job (1 = not important, 5 = extremely important).

Education and preparation

Preparation level 4 of 5 — Considerable preparation. Usually a bachelor's degree and several years of related experience.

Typical entry education (BLS): Bachelor's degree.

Who this job suits

Based on the Holland (RIASEC) interest profile for this occupation.

Job titles you'll see in postings

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