Your book is ready for its first beta reader, but how do you get the best out of your beta reader(s), where do you find them and what questions you need to ask? But first, let’s have a quick reminder of the beta reader's role. What Is a Beta Reader? Beta readers read your book from the viewpoint of your ideal audience, which means you can gain feedback from your target audience before publication. You can then make any last amendments to your book with your perfect reader firmly in mind. Beta readers should include their honest feedback on:
Before we jump into the specific questions you should beasking them, let’s look at the qualities needed in a beta reader. Beta Reader Qualities As we mentioned above, beta readers should give honest feedback. Book edits can’t happen with sugar-coated insights. As well as being honest, beta readers must be reliable, avid readers and familiar with your book's genre. Your beta reader needs to be reliable so that they a) read your book and b) return their feedback. It’s also best to ask someone who reads often, because beta reading can be a massive time commitment. You also want someone familiar with your book’s genre, which means they’ll have the appropriate knowledge to pick up on how well you’ve executed genre-specific tropes and themes. Finding Beta Readers You can find beta readers through:
You can swap your manuscripts with other writers found in online writing communities. Writing communities can be formed through Bookstagram, BookTok or Twitch. If you have an author website, write a blog post or send out a newsletter asking your followers to be beta readers. Those that respond will be your ideal reader as they are already interested in your work. We also offer beta reading as part of our pre-publication services. Now, let’s look at the sorts of questions to ask your beta readers. Questions to ask your Beta Reader
Plot
Characters
Setting
Dialogue
Writing Style
Overall Impression
If you would like more help with beta readers or our beta reading services, or you have any more questions, please get in touch with our team.
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