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What are some prerequisites that you feel are mandatory to have in the field of literature and journalism?

I'm very reserved and reticent, but with that comes a serene mindset able to endure the crudest of times that require absurd patience. I am willing to partake in any tribulation or lengthy assignment if it corresponds with my will. My linguistic skill in my native tongue is rather astute, but I feel as though it could be further augmented. I intend to become an author or a journalist, though they most likely have varying discrepancies. Knowing the other skills and the habits to expect on this treacherous road may compel me to humble myself and study the craft, but I'd need to know the other aspects, be it formatting, sourcing, or some other pillar that I've neglected. I'll most likely be that case where the hotshot amateur strolls in thinking they're a prodigy, only to see that they're unrefined and lacking in comparison to seasoned veterans. #journalism #writing #scripting

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Sean’s Answer

Learn to edit yourself and practice writing naturally. You used almost 150 words for your question, and it probably requires no more than 40. 20 if your skill is astute.
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halee’s Answer

- Ethics--don’t plagiarize or fabricate
- Research skills--being able to request and sort through public records, use Excel, intense Googling
- Solid writing skills--be clear and concise (comes with experience)
- Be comfortable with being uncomfortable
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Jeff’s Answer

Start with liberal arts basics: English, history, and math. You need all them in journalism. After that would be some 101 courses in economics, anthropology, sociology, and political sciences. In general, learn as much as you can about how the world actually operates (as opposed to how it is supposed to operate.) Don't worry about the skillsets or mechanics of the job...you will learn all that on the job.
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Carolina’s Answer

Like yourself, I wanted to be either a journalist or a writer when I was in high school. And I did study journalism and worked as a journalist for about 5 years before I decided to broaden my communications scope.
One thing no one told me before starting that career path was how much sacrifice you have to make in the profession. Much like a doctor, you have to stay up late, work on weekends and Holidays and miss many family events. But the main difference, at least in Costa Rica, is the pay rate a journalist receives vrs what a doctor earns.
So, make sure you are absolutely passionate about becoming a journalist and that your partner is on board with that dream. Otherwise, I would research other career paths in which words are the working tools and go that way and keep being a writer as an amazing hobby/side-business.
Also, if you decide to become a journalist, it would be great if you specialized in a subject and then study more about that subject. For instance, if you want to write about economics, study economy, finance, and other subjects that would be important to know when writing economic journalism.
Hope this helps!
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s’s Answer

Proficiency in English would be good, but may not be mandatory. Joseph Conrad, Vladimir Nabokov and Isabel Allende are examples of writers whose native language was something other than English. If you write well in your own language, you could also end up being translated. Some authors who start as journalists end up writing fiction. 2 examples are Hemingway and Allende. There are many recommendations on how to write. Probably no 2 people who write professionally follow the same exact routine. I think it important to learn to write well (whatever the language) and then write consistently. Jack London, a prolific writer during his 40 years, opined, don't wait for inspiration; go after it with a club (I paraphrase). Regardless, good luck. If writing is your dream, follow it. Cream always rises to the top.
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halee’s Answer

- Newspaper editing
- Grammar/AP Style
- Public speaking
- Portfolio classes (teaches you how to create/organize a portfolio)
- Get involved in news clubs, newspapers, writing groups
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Sabrina’s Answer

Brice, I can already tell your writing is strong. I also find your humility refreshing.

Copyediting could be an area to look into. Mastering AP style actually takes study and practice. Check out the AP stylebook and learn the ropes. Try being a tutor or mentor for younger, aspiring writers and edit work with an intense degree of attention. This will help you recognize your own areas of weakness. I also highly recommend the book On Writing Well by William Zinsser.
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