Can you provide an example of an error that you identified and corrected during your editing work?

Sample answer to the question

During my editing work, I came across a paragraph with a spelling error. The word 'accommodate' was misspelled as 'acommadate'. I immediately corrected the error and informed the author about it. This error could have caused confusion for the readers, so I made sure to pay attention to even the smallest details to maintain the accuracy and quality of the content. Overall, it was a minor error, but it highlighted the importance of thorough proofreading.

A more solid answer

While working as a copy editor, I encountered a sentence that had a punctuation error. The author had mistakenly used a comma instead of a semicolon to separate two independent clauses. I immediately corrected the error to ensure proper sentence structure. Additionally, during my review, I noticed inconsistent capitalization of section headings in the document. I went through the entire text and made the necessary corrections to ensure consistency and readability. By double-checking the document for grammar, punctuation, and style errors, I was able to ensure the accuracy and quality of the content. Both these instances highlight my attention to detail and the importance I place on maintaining the highest standards of writing.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer expands on the basic answer by providing more specific details about the error identified and corrected by the candidate during their editing work. It emphasizes the candidate's skills in proofreading and attention to detail by mentioning the correction of a punctuation error and inconsistent capitalization. However, it can still be further improved by showcasing the candidate's ability to communicate and collaborate with authors/writers to explain the errors and suggest improvements.

An exceptional answer

During my editing work, I encountered a factual error in an article I was reviewing. The author had included a statistical figure that was inconsistent with a reliable source I had cross-checked. I immediately communicated with the author to address the issue and offered suggestions for correcting the information. We collaborated to gather updated data and rectify the error, ensuring the accuracy and credibility of the article. Additionally, while editing a research paper, I noticed a formatting inconsistency in the reference list. I took the initiative to verify the correct citation style and made the necessary modifications throughout the document. By being meticulous in my analysis and proactive in resolving errors, I strive to maintain the highest standards of editing.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer elevates the response by highlighting two different errors encountered by the candidate during their editing work. The first example involves a factual error, showcasing the candidate's critical thinking skills and their ability to communicate and collaborate with the author to rectify it. The second example demonstrates the candidate's attention to detail and ability to identify formatting inconsistencies, showcasing their knowledge of style guides and commitment to maintaining consistency in the document. The exceptional answer effectively showcases the candidate's skills in critical thinking, communication, attention to detail, and adherence to editorial policies.

How to prepare for this question

Familiarize yourself with different style guides and ensure you understand their guidelines for grammar, punctuation, and formatting.
Practice proofreading various types of written material, such as articles, essays, and reports, to enhance your attention to detail.
Brush up on your knowledge of different citation styles to ensure accurate referencing.
Stay updated on current events and reliable sources to be able to identify factual errors in the content.
Be prepared to provide examples from past editing work where you identified and corrected errors to showcase your experience and skills.

What interviewers are evaluating

Proofreading and editing
Attention to detail