In the software development industry, products typically go through several phases before reaching their final status. Developers first create a prototype, which is a preliminary model that demonstrates the overall idea. They often refer to this as the “alpha” phase. At some point, before releasing a final version of a product, it passes through the “beta” phase of development. This is a testing stage designed to provide feedback, identify useability issues or other potential problems that must be resolved before launching the product. Like software developers, authors have similar testers at their disposal called “beta readers.”
Beta readers “test” a manuscript before an author submits it to a publisher. This editorial phase includes a thorough evaluation of the story in question. Authors may ask anyone they choose to fulfill this important task. While it’s not required (meaning, you can submit a manuscript to a publisher without first using beta readers to test your manuscript), it is wise to utilize the option because it can help you spot weaknesses or problems, which may (if left unresolved) compel a publisher to reject your submission.
Where do authors find beta readers?
Most beta readers are volunteers. You can find people who are willing to read your manuscript and provide feedback through various resources, including:
- Family members or friends who are avid readers
- Social media platforms where writers and readers congregate
- Online communities like Goodreads or Reddit
- Local libraries
There are also professional editing agencies whose services include beta readers. It’s always best to ask several people to read your manuscript. This enables you to determine if there are patterns of critique in the feedback, such as multiple readers identifying a similar problem with the plot or character development. Always try to include both writers and nonwriters in your beta reading group.
Choose readers who are a good fit
Keeping these tips in mind will help you find the best beta readers for your work-in-progress. They should:
- Enjoy the genre of your story
- Agree to provide honest and constructive feedback
- Passionate about reading
- Part of your target audience
It may not be helpful to enlist the services of beta readers who do not usually read the genre of your story. In other words, don’t ask someone who typically reads sci-fi to evaluate your Christian romance novel. Likewise, if you’ve written a story geared toward young adults, make sure to choose beta readers who fit the demographic.
Take feedback to heart to help refine your manuscript
If beta readers are all praise and no criticism, they’re probably not being totally honest because most manuscripts have room for improvement. When someone identifies errors or weaknesses in your story, or makes suggestions for improvement, take their feedback to heart. The purpose of using beta readers is to help you refine your manuscript so that it reaches its full potential and becomes a story a publisher will accept.
