Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for Deputy Copy Editor Roles – 2025

Are you applying for a role as a deputy copy editor? Whether you have years of experience or are just starting out in your career, it’s important to be prepared for the interview process. This guide provides 20 up-to-date questions and answers to help you showcase your editing skills, writing experience, and ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

Behavioral Questions

• 1. Can you tell us about a time when you had to deal with conflicting feedback from multiple parties on a piece of content? How did you handle this situation?
  A: In my previous role, I was editing a sensitive article that received conflicting feedback from both the author and the publication's legal team. I scheduled a meeting with both parties to discuss their concerns and find a compromise that satisfied both sides. We were able to come to a resolution and publish the article without any further conflicts.
• 2. How do you handle tight deadlines and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced editorial environment?
  A: I am used to working under tight deadlines and have developed excellent time management skills. First, I prioritize my tasks based on urgency and importance. Then, I break down larger projects into smaller, manageable tasks to ensure they are completed on time. I also communicate regularly with my team to stay on track and adjust my priorities if necessary.
• 3. Tell us about a time when you had to deal with a difficult author or team member. How did you handle the situation?
  A: In my previous role, I worked with an author who was resistant to any changes to their content. I took the time to understand their perspective and provided them with specific examples of how the changes would improve the overall quality of the piece. I also made sure to maintain open communication with the author and address any concerns they had.
• 4. How do you handle constructive criticism and feedback on your work?
  A: I welcome constructive criticism and see it as an opportunity to improve my skills and work. I actively listen to feedback, take notes, and apply the suggestions in my future work. I also make sure to ask for feedback regularly to ensure I am constantly striving for growth and improvement.
• 5. Can you give an example of a time when you had to make a difficult editing decision? How did you handle it?
  A: In my previous role, I was editing a feature article that contained some controversial statements. After discussing with my team and consulting with our publication's ethics policy, I decided to remove the statements to maintain our journalistic integrity. I communicated my decision to the author and explained the reasoning behind it, and we were able to come to a mutual understanding.

Situational Questions

• 6. How would you handle a situation where an important deadline is approaching, but the content is not up to the required standard?
  A: First, I would communicate with the author to get their perspective on the delay and their progress on the content. Then, I would work with them to find a solution, whether it be extending the deadline or adjusting the scope of the project. If necessary, I would also involve my team and prioritize resources to ensure the content is up to standard before the deadline.
• 7. If a piece of content goes against the publication's style guide, how would you handle it?
  A: I would first confirm with the author if the departure from the style guide was intentional. If not, I would make the necessary changes to align with the style guide. If it was intentional, I would discuss with the author and my team to determine if the departure is acceptable or if it needs to be amended to maintain consistency.
• 8. How would you handle a situation where content you have edited is receiving negative feedback from readers?
  A: I would gather all the feedback and analyze it to understand the reasons for the negative reactions. If there are any factual inaccuracies or mistakes, I would work with the author to make corrections as soon as possible. If the negative feedback is a matter of opinion, I would bring it to the attention of my team and discuss ways to address it in future content.
• 9. You notice a factual inaccuracy in a piece of content you have already edited and published. What is your process for addressing this?
  A: First, I would confirm the inaccuracy and gather evidence to support the correction. Then, I would discuss with my team and determine the best course of action, whether it be issuing a correction statement or making the necessary edits to the piece. I would also communicate with the author to ensure they are aware of the mistake and the steps being taken to address it.
• 10. How would you handle a request from a senior editor to prioritize their work over other tasks you have been assigned?
  A: I would first discuss with the senior editor to get more information on the deadlines and importance of their task. Then, I would communicate with my team and decide if we can afford to prioritize the work without compromising on our other responsibilities. If not, I would respectfully decline and reorganize my existing tasks to meet all deadlines.

Technical Questions

• 11. What is the difference between proofreading and copyediting?
  A: Proofreading involves checking a final piece of content for any spelling, grammar, punctuation, or consistency errors. Copyediting goes deeper and also involves checking the overall structure, style, and flow of the piece, as well as correcting any factual inaccuracies.
• 12. Can you explain the difference between AP Style and Chicago Style?
  A: AP Style, or Associated Press Style, is primarily used in journalism and focuses on brevity and simplicity. Chicago Style is commonly used in book publishing and academic writing and allows for more descriptive language and variation in style.
• 13. What tools do you use to ensure consistency in headline capitalization?
  A: I use a headline capitalization tool, such as the Associated Press Headline Capitalization tool, to ensure consistency in my headlines. These tools follow the AP Style guidelines for headline capitalization.
• 14. Can you explain the purpose of a style guide and how it is beneficial for editors?
  A: A style guide helps maintain consistency in writing style and formatting for a publication. For editors, it serves as a quick reference for spelling, grammar, and punctuation rules, as well as organizational guidelines for the publication's content.
• 15. How do you handle unfamiliar or technical jargon in a piece of content you are editing?
  A: I first research the jargon or terminology to understand its meaning and usage. If it is necessary for the piece, I leave it as is with a brief explanation for readers. If it is not necessary or may be confusing, I suggest an alternative term or explain it in simpler language.

Cultural Fit Questions

• 16. What attracted you to this publication and the role of deputy copy editor?
  A: I am drawn to your publication's reputation for delivering high-quality, accurate, and engaging content. The role of deputy copy editor aligns with my passion for editing, and I am excited about the opportunity to work with a talented team of editors.
• 17. How do you handle working with tight-knit teams and collaborating with others on projects?
  A: I thrive in a collaborative and team-oriented environment. I enjoy bouncing ideas off of others and working together to produce the best possible content. I also value and respect the expertise of my team members and believe in open communication to achieve our goals.
• 18. Can you give an example of how you stay updated on industry trends and best practices?
  A: I regularly follow industry publications, attend workshops and conferences, and participate in online forums and discussions. I also make an effort to network with other professionals in the field to stay updated on the latest trends and strategies.
• 19. How do you handle critiques and differing opinions in the editing process?
  A: I see critiques and differing opinions as an opportunity for growth and improvement. I actively listen to feedback and take it into consideration when making editorial decisions. I also offer my own insights and work collaboratively with authors and my team to reach a consensus.
• 20. What do you think are the most important qualities for a successful deputy copy editor?
  A: In my opinion, the most important qualities for a successful deputy copy editor include strong attention to detail, excellent communication and time management skills, a thorough understanding of grammar and editing techniques, and the ability to work well under pressure and meet tight deadlines. The ability to work collaboratively with others and a passion for continuous learning and growth are also essential.