Writers are often asked to “beta read” other manuscripts. A beta reader looks for issues in the story before it is sent out for publication.
Before you beta read anything, it’s important to know what the writer is asking for. Some writers ask you to look for continuity issues. Some ask you to look for typos, misused words or spelling mistakes.
But sometimes, a request for a beta read is not “Tell me what I’m doing wrong.” It’s really asking, “Can I make it? Do I have what it takes? Do you see anything in here that tells you I should keep writing?”
Sometimes that writer just needs to hear that some parts are working. They need a little more confidence so they can try things they might not have tried before.
And now here is a friendly voice you may have already heard.
I always wondered how they got those voices. I knew they could not be computer voices. Very interesting. I agree it is nice to hear a friendly voice.
How timely that you are posting about this – I’ll be sending one of my manuscripts to beta readers this week! 🙂
I have a few questions to ask them, so it’ll be interesting to see what they have to say.
Good for you, Lorraine. It’s great to be at the “beta reader” stage.
Resist the temptation to read any beta reader comments until you have received them ALL. They will be interesting, informative, and conflicting. Let them simmer in your head for a time, before you begin editing. Good luck!