#redeback

Reporters will often request what is referred to as a "redeback" from their editor. It's the edited version of their story that is slated to run in the newspaper or website. It gives the reporter a chance to smooth out any rough edits or add in any last points. Flaks, however, should NEVER ask for their own redeback, although many do. No self-respecting publication would ever agree to show a story ahead of time. Asking just irks us, and gets you nothing.