Blog 25: Interview with a Beta Reader

Hello, creative writers. Today, I would like to shine a light on Beta readers and how they can help you develop your manuscript during your editing stage. I am fortunate to know such a person, who works with me in the Author Support Directory, and she has kindly agreed to get you all clued up on the ins and outs of this kind of editing assistance. Let me introduce you to Jen Jilany from Up Style Editing.

Hi Jen, thanks for popping in. Would you tell us a bit about yourself and how you began Beta reading?

I’m a professional editor of fiction and creative nonfiction, trained in Editorial Skills by George Brown College in Toronto and in the Developmental Editing of Fiction by the Editorial Freelancers Association. I am also a certified workshop facilitator with the Writers Collective of Canada, and an Editors Canada Executive.

I began Beta reading to build my editing portfolio in a variety of fiction genres and to have an opportunity to apply the learnings of my developmental editing training. The feedback I received from authors was overwhelmingly positive, and I loved doing it, so I decided to add it as a professional service.

So, what is the purpose of Beta reading?

I think it is typical for an author to share a story with family and friends once a manuscript is complete. However, unbiased feedback is helpful to identify your target readership’s raw emotional reactions to scenes, as well as any glaring issues. Are there major plot holes or moments of confusion? Has the writing accurately transcribed what was in the author’s mind in the transmission onto the page? Even Stephen King uses Beta readers for all of his novels.

It’s great that you offer a service that assists writers at this early stage to help them craft their stories. But what stage in the writing process would someone bring their manuscript to you?

Generally, I am either the Alpha reader or one of several Beta readers, after the manuscript is complete and self-edited. However, in one case, I was approached to Beta read only one (the first) chapter of a story, so now I also offer first chapter critiques. The first one to five pages are where acquisition editors, literary agents, and many readers decide whether they will read on, so the first chapter is the most crucial.

What is the difference between a Beta reader and an Alpha reader, and how do you know which one you need?

An Alpha reader is the first reader; the Beta readers are the second, third, etc. It is good to have multiple Beta readers, as reactions and opinions may differ between their readings. It is akin to having a sufficient sample size during a clinical trial, for example.

Why is it important to get a Beta reader before a professional edit?

In some cases, Beta readers can help refine the story. If, for example, four out of five Beta readers dislike the ending, the author will likely choose to rewrite the end of the book. In that case, it would have been too early to have submitted it for professional editing.

I imagine this service can save time, being directed to the points that need editing and providing a reader’s perspective, but with the additional story development know-how. Can you tell us what it involves?

Many authors seek free Beta readers or other authors who agree to a manuscript swap. These Beta readers can easily be found on social media platforms or in a writing group. A professional Beta read, however, includes notes from the perspective of an editor trained in story structures and writing techniques. The author sends me their manuscript in Google Docs or MS Word, and I provide an editorial letter listing strengths and overall thoughts on how to improve the plot structure, inner and outer dialogue, character development, pacing, description and setting, and plausibility. My notes are in-depth, with reader reactions for every page of every chapter. I also provide an editorial assessment with recommendations as to what type(s) of professional editing would be suitable to make the manuscript ready for querying or self-publishing.

That sounds very in-depth. However, what if an author has specific areas of concern? Can they request those elements for you to comment on, or ask for a makeshift package?

Yes, I am happy to address specific areas of concern; otherwise, I have a standard Beta read report template that I tailor for each client. I also offer editing packages with a bundle discount.

How much does it cost?

Beta reading is the most economical service I offer, and costs vary on a project-by-project basis.

Do you offer any follow-up services?

Yes, I support authors with a variety of editing services that can accompany or supplement a Beta read, such as Zoom calls to review feedback, brainstorm ideas, or coach on revisions.

That’s great to know. What advice would you give to someone who is looking for a Beta reader?

I would suggest not seeking Beta readers on a first draft; hold off until the second draft. And not to solely rely on friends and family as your Beta readers. If you do decide to hire a professional Beta reader, vet their work by reviewing testimonials or asking for referrals.

Do you have any other editing tips?

Even though you have poured your heart and soul into your book, it is important to be open to feedback and to find collaborators who share actionable feedback. Also, protect your work by ensuring a contract is in place so your work won’t be stolen, or by placing restrictions on the document so that it cannot be copied. Once you do receive feedback, compile it into one summary before tackling revisions. The revisions phase can be overwhelming at first, but it is important to remember that some issues can be resolved by simply adding or removing one sentence.

All great advice! Thanks Jen.

If anyone wants to learn more about how Jen can assist, or you have any follow up questions about this blog, please contact Jen on her website at upstyleediting.ca.