I see questions regularly on social media and in writing groups about beta readers. Who is a beta reader? What do they do? Are their services free? What’s the difference between a beta reader and a book reviewer? Let’s delve into the world of beta reading.
Who is a beta reader?
A beta reader is an individual who is a reader first and foremost. A beta reader reads a manuscript and provides feedback on the meat and bones. Ideally, a beta reader is not a family member and maybe not even a close friend. Why? A beta reader who is unfamiliar with the author’s writing style will catch things that friends and family may miss.
Are beta readers’ services free?
A lot of beta readers provide free services! They are not hard to find, either, but finding readers who fit YOUR idea of a beta reader may be a little tougher. Many writers have gone through their share of bad beta readers, but that’s part of life when the word “free” is thrown into the mix.
What are the differences between beta readers and book reviewers?
- A beta reader works with the author before publication, and a book reviewer works with the author after publication.
- An author will look for specific feedback. The author will often know of possible weak points and will present questions to the beta reader in order to gauge what needs to be addressed.
At what stage do I need to utilize beta readers?
Some writers are all over the place with their use of beta readers, but the most effective and time-saving way to use beta readers is after alpha readers (who are most often family and close friends), after a round or two of your own editing, but before sending to an editor. Beta readers are not 
a replacement for proofreaders or developmental, line, or copy editors; they’re meant to help give initial direction and feedback.
How many beta readers should I use?
More is not better. Too many and there are too many cooks in the kitchen—not to mention a lot of feedback to wade through. I recommend three or four good beta readers. If you are new to finding beta readers, you may want a couple more, especially if you’re uncertain of the quality of the feedback you’ll receive. Additionally, you may want two beta rounds; a first round to read after a completion of a first self-edit, and a second round (with a new set of beta readers!) after a second self-edit.
Once you are familiar with using beta readers, you will know how many work best for you.
If I have several rounds of beta reading, can I forego hiring an editor?
It depends on your publishing goals. If you are interested in pursuing publishing through a traditional publishing house, you will need to hire an editor and possibly an agent in order to succeed in that endeavor. If you are planning on independent publishing through Amazon’s KDP, Smashwords, or other similar self-publishing arenas, you’ll still want to hire an editor. Why? Two words. Reader reviews. Check out Goodreads and Amazon and spend some time reading reviews; readers like books that have been professionally edited.
Think of it this way—when pipes burst, do you want an unskilled friend to help or do you want to hire a plumber to fix the problem? You’re going to want to fix the problem correctly the first time.
Where can I find beta readers?
There are multiple ways of finding beta readers. A simple query on Facebook, Twitter, etc. may find you results fairly easily. Make sure you are specific about what your story is about, and include page length, genre, and a timeframe when you want the reading finished. If you are specific, you may be able to weed out the less serious readers.
Other places that are known for beta readers (please read the rules for each group—many require participation if you’re going to ask for services of other members):
Goodreads Beta Reader Group
Critique Circle
Beta Readers Critiques
Indie Author Group
Beta Readers and Critique Partners
Critique Partner Matchmaking
AbsoluteWrite Water Cooler
I’m sure there are many other places available that I may not have listed. Scope out the groups and find the right fit for your needs, and be prepared to also offer help to other writers as well.
Tips for working with beta readers
- Don’t be pushy, and don’t argue. Give your beta readers a reasonable deadline (two weeks is usually average). If you don’t like the feedback from a beta reader, don’t respond with vitriol. Remember, you don’t have to ask them to read for you in the future.
- Let them know you’re not looking for proofreading help, if you don’t want that. Have questions prepared in advance for your beta readers to answer. If one of your readers insists on pointing out grammar issues, don’t bother correcting the reader; just focus on the answers to your questions. *Pro tip: save the proofreading for your professional proofreader.
- Create a system for your responses. Use note cards or sticky notes or another system that works for you; arrange each question and their responses so you can look at them in an organized way. Look for patterns in the responses—did each reader make a comment about a character being overly annoying or did your readers really love your attention to detail? Look for weaknesses and work to make them strong.
- Don’t take feedback personally. This is so very, very, very important. Be confident in your work and rest easy; be patient with the process. Consider each critique as educational; you’re trying to grow, and your beta readers are helping you. You can do this!
How have you used beta readers for your writing? Do you have a great critique/beta reader group you can share? Share your tips and suggestions in the comments!
