In the scenario where your boss asks you to edit a manuscript, what is your approach?
Editing is a common task as a Medical Writer. The interviewer is primarily interested in your process both as an editor and also as a team-player. When responding to this question, you can also elaborate on your collaboration and communication skill.
"In my experience, people have different expectations when it comes to editing so I would immediately ask what types of edits are expected. I've been requested to do simple grammar edits as well as extensive edits and comments to make the science easier to understand for the reader. Depending on the expectation, my approach will vary."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
Editing a manuscript is probably similar to rewriting it so that it emulates a personal writing style. I approach this process by a first read. It is at this time that I note the message, the flow of information, the words I expect to encounter, the uncommon style or grammatical errors. Then I make the changes by slimming the text, replacing words for clarity, or rearranging them. This would be a first draft. If time allows, I let it sit for a few good minutes, read a book or play chess, then come back to it for another read. I know that every iteration, at some point, would be another version not necessarily better than the other but from a different approach.
Amanda's Feedback
Great job! Consider also talking about any probing questions you may ask your boss prior to starting work in order to understand his or her expectations. You can also share how you know when the editing process is complete so that you do not spend time endlessly editing.
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