This week I posted a note on my Substack about when NOT to use beta readers. And I’ve had lots of conversations about it since. I’m glad that it was helpful.
But I want to make sure writers aren’t scared off of beta readers. Beta readers have an important role in the writing and revision process.
When SHOULD you use betas?
You should consider using a beta reader on a relatively polished draft.
An alpha reader would be more of a critique partner or other first reader who might help you through a rough draft. Someone who can help you navigate the big picture structure and help you achieve your story goals. When you employ an alpha reader is also when you would consider using a book coach or developmental editor.
Betas are more helpful later in the process when you want to ensure your character is behaving the way you want, that you didn’t inadvertently edit something out leaving a giant plot hole, and the overall readability of the book. Basically, you’ve edited the manuscript within an inch of its life and to the best of your ability and now is the time to make sure it all works together – the pacing, the setting, the plot, the characters, etc…
Consider a beta reader when…
- You think you might be query ready
- You completed a big revision and want to make sure the story is still working
- You think it’s darn near perfect but there is something nagging you that you want to get an outsider’s perspective on
Who are beta readers?
Really, anyone COULD be a beta reader, but not everyone SHOULD be.
When you write a novel, you will have all manner of friends, relatives, or book club members, offering to read your work. Before you jump at all the offers, consider the type of feedback you want and whether that person will be able to give it to you.
For instance, my mom is an avid reader and conceivably in my target market, however, she’s also my mom. Everything I do is wonderful in her mom eyes. She would not be the person I go to for constructive criticism.
On the other hand, I have an aunt who was an English teacher and studied literature extensively. We also share similar literary tastes. She is great at giving feedback because 1) she knows how to deliver it kindly having graded a ton of papers in her time and 2) understands story structure in a behind-the-scenes way that my mom might not consciously be aware of. She’s also not afraid to tell me what’s not working.
Be discerning about who you choose to read your work.
Writers you’ve met through writing groups or in writing organization are great candidates. Consider writers you’ve met at conferences or even online as beta readers. Checking in with your local librarian is also an option. They may have recommendations or even a colleague who is well versed in your genre to suggest. There are even services that offer professional beta reading services which can be great options if you have the financial ability to hire them. These services can be particularly helpful if you’re looking for a specific kind of reader. Say you want women readers over 40 with experience in healthcare, or parents of adopted children, or men who have served in the military, you may be able to request that using a paid service.
Make the most of your beta read
To make the most of your beta read, ask your readers specific questions about areas of concern in your manuscript (you know what they are!). Ideally, you’ve already done some significant revision on this story so you probably have some specific things you want to make sure are working.
Give your beta reader a list of a few questions you would like to know the answers to. Some sample questions to ask your beta readers include:
- When did you put the book down?
- Is character X believable?
- Are the stakes clear?
- When did you feel the story lagging?
- Was the climax inevitable?
- Does the story fulfill the promise of its premise?
- Were there places you were confused in the story?
How many beta readers do I need?
Two beta readers is good, but three is better so you can break any ties. Once you receive your beta reader feedback, look for patterns. Take a good look at any place more than one reader points out an issue or possible problem.
Avoid asking for too much feedback. Too many voices will cloud your revision.
Above all else, be open to feedback. Read all the comments, put them away, then return a few days later. Once you have a chance to digest the feedback and analyze the possible root causes, use their responses to make your story, and ultimately your craft, stronger.
Don’t try to please everyone by incorporating everyone’s feedback. Be steadfast in your story goals and use the feedback that helps make your story stronger.
Of course we all want readers to tell us our manuscripts are perfect, ready to pitch or send to our agents, but use beta readers as an opportunity for a fair read by your ideal reader. If it’s not really ready, it’s better to know before we hit send on that dream agent query. We want to send our best work into the world, and beta readers can help us do that.
Want more in-depth feedback on your manuscript while you’re revising? My Manuscript Evaluation spots are open for the Fall!
Contact me HERE for more information on saving a space for your Manuscript Evaluation and you’ll receive an in-depth editorial letter, in-document feedback, a one-hour call to discuss and brainstorm, plus specific next steps so you can revise with confidence moving forward.
Look at what one of my clients said after her manuscript evaluation:
I am very excited to dig back into revisions with the feedback I’ve been given. The feedback goes beyond this story. The questions that were raised and the options for how to address those issues got me thinking in a new way. I’m learning how to do this crazy thing as I go through the feedback and I love that.
Pam Huber-Huack, writer