Do I need a degree in English or journalism?

Not necessarily. Many writers studied other subjects, which can help them specialise in areas such as finance, health or technology. A strong portfolio is usually what employers look at first.

What is the difference between content writing and copywriting?

Content writing usually informs or educates, for example through articles and guides. Copywriting is more focused on persuading readers to act, such as signing up or buying. Many roles combine both.

Can writers work in both Arabic and English?

Yes, and bilingual writers are often valued in Arab markets and international organisations. Show samples in each language and be clear about which language you write in most naturally.

Career guide

How to start a career in writing and content

Professional writers help organisations explain, inform and persuade. Paths include content writing, copywriting, technical writing, editing and translation, and the work appears in websites, product guides, reports, campaigns and internal documents.

Strong writing is more than good grammar. Employers often look for people who can understand an audience, organise complex information, meet deadlines and accept edits without losing the clarity of the message.

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What the work looks like

Researching topics and interviewing subject experts
Planning structure and drafting articles, pages or documents
Editing for clarity, accuracy, tone and consistency
Following style guides and, where relevant, search engine best practice
Working with designers, marketers, developers or translators to finish projects

First roles

Junior content writer or copywriter
Editorial assistant
Junior technical writer or documentation assistant
Junior translator or localisation assistant

How to start

Write regularly and ask for honest feedback from editors or experienced writers.
Build a portfolio of short samples for different audiences and formats.
Check your skills with the writing test or the technical writing test.
If you work in more than one language, take the translation test.
Learn basic tools, such as content management systems and editing software.
Apply with a clean, well-written CV based on one of the CV templates; for writers, the CV is itself a sample.

Skills employers look for

Prove these with a free test, or read the guide for each one.

WritingFree test Guide
TranslationFree test Guide
Technical WritingFree test Guide
Written CommunicationFree test Guide
Reading ComprehensionFree test Guide

Your CV for each market

Common questions

Do I need a degree in English or journalism?: Not necessarily. Many writers studied other subjects, which can help them specialise in areas such as finance, health or technology. A strong portfolio is usually what employers look at first.
What is the difference between content writing and copywriting?: Content writing usually informs or educates, for example through articles and guides. Copywriting is more focused on persuading readers to act, such as signing up or buying. Many roles combine both.
Can writers work in both Arabic and English?: Yes, and bilingual writers are often valued in Arab markets and international organisations. Show samples in each language and be clear about which language you write in most naturally.