I believe it is very important to mix the writer's words with the editors rather than completely change the writer’s work. The supplemental reading said it was crucial to blend ideas and provide direction. By doing this, the editor leaves the writer in control of their work. Editing is a collaborative process where the editor listens, advises, and applauds the writer throughout the journey.

Important concepts on working with writers that I learned from the supplemental readings this week are as follows:

•  Share examples from newspapers, radio, television, and poems to keep the conversation geared towards writing.
•  Ask questions, listen, and share ideas. Then return the copy of the work to the writer to correct.
•  Give constructive criticism by telling the writer what he or she did well and why you believe it was good.
• Be specific with your editing by providing lists of words the writer can improve.

Things I found helpful while working as an official editor were:

• Accentuate the positive by expressing everything you found well-written in the paper.
• Find the best thing about the story and give praise to the specific details you like.
• Challenge the writer to do better.
• Limit your focus to the most important and immediate issues. Then teach the writer how to avoid these mistakes in the future.
• Keep an open mind and embrace the writer’s choices.