Q: I am an editor at a smaller publication, and sometimes we find ourselves short on content when deadline rolls around. Every so often, we have to publish poorly-written articles that require extensive editing — even to the point where our copy editor is literally rewriting whole paragraphs and rearranging the structure of the piece. I feel bad because the copy editor is doing so much work while the reporter gets to take credit for the article. Would it be okay to give the copy editor the byline instead, and name the original reporter as a contributor? A: Ideally, this situation would never happen. Ideally, you have more than enough available content every week, and only select the best pieces for publication. Ideally, you have a strict editorial schedule for your publication and have adequate time to work with a writer and help them revise their piece before your...
