WHAT IS A BETA READER
A Beta reader reads a polished first draft of a manuscript. They check for flow, pacing, consistency, plot holes, and, most importantly, engagement. They are not editors. Betas don’t check for grammar or spelling mistakes. While that being said, I do ask Betas if they have seen any reoccurring errors, but I don’t expect them to edit the manuscript for these errors.
WHY DO WE USE BETAS
Beta Readers give us a reader’s perspective of the flow of the manuscript. Do you think a clue is too obviously placed? See if the reader picks up on it. Do you think your readers will relate to this character? Ask a Beta how they feel about the character. Beta Readers give you a clean pair of eyes and a clear mind to bounce your manuscript off.
THINGS TO REMEMBER ABOUT BETA READERS
Beta Readers are your friends. Good Betas don’t want to put you down, but they must be completely honest with you as the author. It’s for your and your manuscript’s best intentions the,at your Betas tell you the whole truth, no mattmustit may hurt. As an author, you must take this that criticism professionally and ryouber Betas only wants the best for you and your manuscript. It would be best if you alread for Beta Readers. Thegivgiveour polished draft and give you a reader’Please writespective of your story. It would be best if you listened to your Betas.
QUESTIONS TO ASK BETA READERS
Please write down the questions you want to ask your Betas, so they know what is coming. Download the attached PDFs below for sample questions. Make it easy for them to answer the questions. Remember, they are doing you a service by agreeing to Beta Read.
WHAT I GIVE BETA READERS AND HOW I WORK WITH THEM
After the Beta Reader signs an NDA, I provide every Beta Reader a pocket with a well-polished first draft in a three-ring binder. This follows the same format for a copy I would submit to a publisher or agent. I include a welcome letter thanking them for joining my Beta Reader Team. I also have a sample list of questions so they know what I’m going to ask of them. I set up a simple page on my website for them to answer the questions at their convenience. Lastly, since I ask that they use red ink for all notes since it makes it easier for me to see them later, I included a red pen in the packet. Weekly I conduct video conferences or meet in person with each Beta Reader to discuss the manuscript’s process so far.
THANKING THE BETA READERS
Beta Readers and editors are often forgotten when it comes time to acknowledge those that helped with the writing process. Please make sure you thank them frequently and consistently. They are turning your manuscript into a publishable novel. I have also attached a copy of the letter I give to each of my Beta Readers as they join my Beta Reader Team. In it, you will note that I thank them twice for their contribution of time and talent. Usually, I like to do something special for my editors and Beta Readers. They get called out in the book’s acknowledgments, but I also want to take them out to eat or throw a party for them when the project is completed. After all, my novel wouldn’t be complete without their input.