Guidance.help

Writers and Authors

O*NET files this work under Writers and Authors: people who originate and prepare written material, such as scripts, stories, advertisements, and other material. Its interest code is AEC. Artistic leads at 6.7 out of 7, so expect creative work with room for original expression, with Enterprising next at 4.8. The preparation level is considerable preparation, typically a bachelor’s degree plus a period of work experience. O*NET’s skill data points to writing, reading comprehension, and time management as the ones to build. You may also need to write fiction or nonfiction prose, such as short stories, novels, biographies, articles, descriptive or critical analyses, and essays. People who want creative work with room for original expression usually fit better here than those who need hands-on work with tools, machines or the physical world.

What they do

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

Main tasks

  • 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.

Skills

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

Who this career fits

May suit you if

  • You want room to make something in your own way.
  • You like taking the lead and making the call.
  • You are ready to spend around four years on a degree, then build experience.
  • You are comfortable relying on writing and reading comprehension.

May not suit you if

  • You prefer clear instructions to open creative briefs.
  • You want to work with your hands for most of the day. Realistic rates 1.0 out of 7 here.
  • You want to avoid a four-year degree or its equivalent.

Interest profile

O*NET rates each occupation from 1 to 7 on six interest types. The code AEC takes the three highest, and Artistic comes first here.

Preparation

Considerable preparation. Most jobs here ask for a bachelor’s degree, and employers usually expect a few years of related experience as well.

Also called

  • Advertising Copywriter
  • Advertising Writer
  • Author
  • Content Marketing Writer
  • Copywriter

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This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.