CPW Ethics & Professional Standards 2

Question 1

A writer is hired to ghostwrite a book for a client who plans to publish it under their own name. What is the primary ethical obligation of the ghostwriter?

Accepted Answer

Honor the confidentiality agreement and complete the work professionally

Answer

Ghostwriting is a legitimate, widely accepted professional practice, and the writer's primary obligation is to honor agreed-upon confidentiality and deliver quality work.

Question 2

Which scenario best illustrates a conflict of interest for a freelance writer?

Accepted Answer

Reviewing a competitor's product while under contract with that competitor's rival

Answer

A conflict of interest arises when a writer's financial or personal ties could compromise the objectivity or integrity of their work.

Question 3

A CPW discovers that a source they quoted in a published article has been found to have fabricated credentials. What should the writer do?

Accepted Answer

Notify the publication and recommend a correction or retraction

Answer

Professional writers are responsible for the accuracy of their published work and must proactively correct errors, even after publication.

Question 4

Under US copyright law, when a writer creates content as an employee within the scope of their employment, who owns the copyright?

Accepted Answer

The employer, under the work-for-hire doctrine

Answer

Under the work-for-hire doctrine, content created by an employee within their job duties is owned by the employer.

Question 5

A professional writer is asked to write a persuasive op-ed on behalf of a corporation without disclosing the paid arrangement. This practice is known as:

Accepted Answer

Astroturfing

Answer

Astroturfing is the deceptive practice of creating content that appears to be organic or independent while concealing its paid or sponsored origin.

(CPW) Certified Professional Writer Practice Test

(CPW) Certified Professional Writer Practice Test

CPW Ethics & Professional Standards 2