Beta Reading-
Getting a Reader’s Perspective
If you need someone to look at your book the way an average reader would, you need beta reading.
What Is a Beta Reader?
Like developmental editors, beta readers (also called alpha readers or first readers) look at the big picture, but we focus on a reader’s perspective instead of an editor’s or a writer’s.
Beta readers provide feedback to help authors know if the book is working for an average reader. This includes letting the writer know how scenes are coming across or reactions to different plot points in the story.
Usually, this comes after developmental editing before the story moves on to line and copy edits.
What’s My Process for Beta Reading?
I thoroughly read the story, making comments on the manuscript that include my reactions and feedback. At the same time, I take notes in a separate document.
When I’m finished, I turn my notes into a reader report. This report answers any questions you have about your story and gives general feedback on character, plot, engagement, setting, believability, and reader reactions.
What Elements Does a Beta Read Focus On?
- Character
- Plot
- Pacing
- Voice
- Reader Reactions
- Engagement
- Worldbuilding
- Setting
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Excellent experience! Not only was her report more thorough than I had expected, but it was also delivered early. I have only read through a quarter of the notes and it was well worth the cost and I know it will be a huge help. It was clear in her reports that she understood my goals for this project and I will definitely be hiring her again when I am ready for deeper editing.
ericjolson
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Customer
Pricing
$0.0075 / word