There are two big chunks of the writing process: the initial writing stage, and the latter editing stage. Foundational, fundamental changes to your story can happen at any point in your writing process, which is why the editing stage can be just as creative and influential to your overall story as the initial writing stage. In this editing stage, you should run through a round (or many rounds) of self-edits, structural and developmental editing with an editor, proofreading with a proofreader, and beta and alpha reading with readers.
But what exactly is beta reading? And alpha reading? Well, both are readers who provide general feedback on your manuscript in your editing phase. Not every writer utilizes both, but many do. Even some of the most well-known authors (F Scott Fitzgerald, for one) have utilized readers.
An alpha reader is typically the first person to read what you've written. They're frequently fellow writers, and can comment on the writing process and give more technical feedback.
Your beta readers, however, represent your end reader
This is the person who will ultimately pick up your book at the library or bookstore, take it home with them, crack it open, and start reading.
In my practice, I prefer to beta read once a full draft has been written and self-edited at least once, though I have also beta read after the editing and proofreading were all said and done. If you're wanting a reader as you write, you're looking for an alpha reader.
Most beta readers will give you general feedback on what worked or didn't work in your story. They can comment on a number of things, and you can tell them which areas you'd specifically like feedback on. Maybe you're concerned about the beginning chapter. Or loose ends. Or maybe a character seems weaker than originally envisioned.
That being said, it is not your beta reader's job to provide solutions or coach you through it. A good beta reader will give feedback, leaving X's to mark the spots, but leave the creative triage to you. Steer clear of beta readers who try to tell you how you should write it instead or offer ideas for plot points.
Ultimately, your beta reader is there to give their overall impressions. If they're anything like me, they'll provide you with a reader report, which is almost like a very early book review. My reports typically focus on first chapters, pacing, plot holes, character development, and big picture items. If any authors ever want additional feedback on a different aspect of their story, such as how I think a certain audience would receive an element, I'll do my best to answer.
If you're interested in a beta reader for your story, take advantage of my Special Leap Year Pricing for the month of February. Normally $5 per every 1000 words, I'm currently charging $1 per every 1000 words. This means $60 for a 60,000 word story! Special pricing ends on March 1st, 2024.
Buy one of my packages on Fiverr today!
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