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  1. Occupations
  2. Writers and Authors

Writers and Authors

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

SOC: 27-3043.00

Common Job Titles

  • Advertisement Agency Copywriter (Ad Agency Copywriter)
  • Advertising Copywriter
  • Copywriter
  • Freelance Copywriter

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • KnowledgeCreate original written content including scripts, stories, and advertisements across multiple formats and media channels to meet client specifications.
    Advanced
  • KnowledgeSynthesize research findings and source material into cohesive narratives drawing from communications, media, and subject-matter knowledge.
    Advanced
  • KnowledgeFormulate compelling narratives that balance creative expression with commercial objectives in advertising, journalism, or creative writing contexts.
    Advanced
  • KnowledgeEvaluate written material for clarity, persuasiveness, and audience engagement applying critical thinking and editorial judgment independently.
    Proficient
  • MindsetIntegrate audience needs and cultural context with creative vision when developing content for diverse readerships and stakeholders.
    Proficient
  • KnowledgeDevelop content strategies and editorial objectives aligning with marketing goals and publication timelines under time constraints.
    Proficient
  • MindsetAdvocate creative concepts and narrative approaches through persuasive communication with editors, clients, and external stakeholders.
    Proficient
  • KnowledgeCompare multiple drafts and revisions for quality and consistency managing personal workflow and project prioritization independently.
    Proficient
  • KnowledgeApply digital publishing platforms and content management systems using WordPress, Adobe Creative Cloud, and collaborative tools to produce and distribute content.
    Developing
  • KnowledgeInterpret market trends and audience analytics using Google Analytics and social media insights to inform content development.
    Developing
  • MindsetEngage with interdisciplinary teams and subject-matter experts to gather information and ensure content accuracy and relevance.
    Developing
  • MindsetRespect ethical standards and intellectual property rights when sourcing material and attributing contributions across projects.
    Developing

Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Writers and Authors (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

47,800

Wage Distribution by Percentile

Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $41,080. 25th percentile: U.S. $52,890. 50th percentile: U.S. $72,270. 75th percentile: U.S. $98,320. 90th percentile: U.S. $133,680. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.

  • U.S.
MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$41,080
10% of workers earn the following or more$133,680
Workers on average earn$85,780

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Sales and Marketing4.3/5
  • Communications and Media4.2/5
  • Customer and Personal Service4.0/5
  • Computers and Electronics3.5/5
  • Mathematics2.9/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge

Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

  • Adobe Acrobat
  • Adobe After Effects
  • Adobe Creative Cloud software
  • Adobe Illustrator
  • Adobe InDesign
  • Adobe Photoshop
  • Asana
  • Drupal
  • Facebook
  • Figma
  • Google Analytics
  • Google Docs
  • Google Workspace software
  • HubSpot software
  • Hypertext markup language HTML
  • Microsoft Access
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Office software
  • Microsoft Outlook
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Microsoft Project
  • Microsoft SharePoint
  • Microsoft Word
  • MySQL
  • PHP
  • Slack
  • TikTok
  • WordPress

Technology Skills

  • Adobe Dreamweaver
  • Adobe Persuasion
  • Adobe Premiere Pro
  • Apple Final Cut Pro
  • Avid Technology Media Composer
  • Blackbaud The Raiser's Edge
  • Campaign Monitor
  • Chatbot software
Tools & Technology: Technology Skills

Tools & Equipment

  • Copy machines
  • Desktop computers
  • Laptop computers
  • Personal computers
  • Teleconferencing equipment
  • Universal serial bus USB flash drives
  • Videoconferencing equipment

Related Occupations

Occupations with similar skills and knowledge requirements

Most Similar

  • Poets, Lyricists and Creative Writers 27-3043.05
  • Public Relations Specialists 27-3031.00
  • Advertising Sales Agents 41-3011.00
  • Search Marketing Strategists 13-1161.01
  • Advertising and Promotions Managers 11-2011.00

Moderately Similar

  • Editors 27-3041.00
  • Art Directors 27-1011.00
  • Producers and Directors 27-2012.00
  • News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists 27-3023.00
  • Technical Writers 27-3042.00

Related

  • Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists 13-1161.00
  • Marketing Managers 11-2021.00
  • Graphic Designers 27-1024.00
  • Proofreaders and Copy Markers 43-9081.00
  • Agents and Business Managers of Artists, Performers, and Athletes 13-1011.00
  • Web and Digital Interface Designers 15-1255.00
  • Talent Directors 27-2012.04
  • Special Effects Artists and Animators 27-1014.00
  • Public Relations Managers 11-2032.00
  • Media Programming Directors 27-2012.03

Related Programs

Education programs that prepare you for this occupation

  • Bachelor's DegreeMultimedia Journalism MajorIssuer: Troy University
  • Bachelor's DegreeCommunication Arts MajorIssuer: Troy University
  • Post-Baccalaureate CertificateUser Experience (Graduate Certificate)Issuer: University of Alabama in Huntsville
  • Post-Baccalaureate CertificateTechnical Communication (Graduate Certificate)Issuer: University of Alabama in Huntsville
  • Bachelor's DegreeWriting (BA)Issuer: University of Alabama in Huntsville
  • Bachelor's DegreeCommunication Arts (BA)Issuer: University of Alabama in Huntsville
  • Master's DegreeMaster of Arts in Communication ManagementIssuer: University of Alabama at Birmingham
  • Bachelor's DegreeWriting and Media, BAIssuer: University of Alabama at Birmingham
  • Bachelor's DegreeCommunication Studies, BAIssuer: University of Alabama at Birmingham
  • Bachelor's DegreeCommunication - Digital JournalismIssuer: Jacksonville State University