All About Editing: Beta Reading

A beta reader is a test reader or an unofficial editor. You, the writer and first reader, are the alpha reader. She, the second reader, is your beta. In fandom, a beta reader can do everything from a read-through and feedback on the overall story to in-depth editing. Beta reading is a good way to hone your editing skills in the same way that self-editing is a good way to hone your beta reading skills.

Familiarize yourself with the rules of writing.
If you're not already comfortable with the basics, get comfortable. A practical handbook and a good dictionary or a trustworthy website on grammar and writing are invaluable. For your first few betas, you may end up consulting these resources frequently.

Don't apologize and don't be offended.
Resist the temptation to apologize for the quality of your critique. Your critique is valid--regardless of your experience--because you are a reader and you have opinions. The writer will take or leave your comments as she sees fit, so don't be offended if you see the finished project and realize that "problems" you identified weren't fixed. Remember that the writer has the final say in her own work.

Pick your projects carefully.
Identify what you like to read and take on those projects. Identify aspects of your own writing that you need help with and take on projects that will let you learn. Beta reading is work, but it should be work that you can do without having to force yourself.

Read twice.
Read it once as a reader. Make notes if you have to, but wait for the second read-through to critique. Read it the second time with a critical eye and a red pen.

Be thorough.
However you decide to beta read, be thorough. Give all parts of the manuscript your attention. This is a bit of a pet peeve of mine, as when I first started using beta readers, I had a couple of them who started off each beta with many, many notes, but once they got to the last half, they just sort of... stopped making notes. Be consistent with your critique throughout the manuscript.

Be prompt.
If you have offered or agreed to beta read, turn the story around as quickly as possible. Chances are that the writer is counting on you. She may be working on some sort of deadline, she may be anxious, she may just want to finish the story and move on. Returning your notes quickly is appreciated just as much as the notes themselves.

Be honest.
This is the single most important tip for beta reading. Be honest in your critique. Be honest about what you liked and what you didn't like. Don't give false praise or flattery. You're doing a job and that job is not butt-kisser.

For more beta reading resources, check out the following links:

• How to Beta Read
• Tips for Beta Readers
• Tips on Beta Reading from a Beta