Beta Reader

Last updated on August 28, 2023

Have you ever heard the saying “I just sent my manuscript to my beta readers,” and thought to yourself, what the heck are beta readers? Well, I know I did! I myself did not know what the term meant and whether I had made a mistake in not enlisting a set of beta readers prior to publishing my book Pnĕumä.

So what exactly are beta readers? According to Microsoft Bing, a beta reader is defined as “a person who reads a work of fiction before it is published in order to mark errors and suggest improvements, typically without receiving payment.” Wikipedia defines a beta reader as “a test reader of an unreleased work of literature or other writing, who gives feedback from the point of view of an average reader to the author”. A beta reader is not a professional and can therefore provide advice and comments in the opinions of an average reader. This feedback is used by the writer to fix remaining issues with plot, pacing, and consistency. The beta reader also serves as a sounding board to see if the book has had the intended emotional impact.

Besides professional editors, beta readers are the second most important individuals to the publishing process. They are the first line of defense so to speak. With the right beta readers on board, an author’s manuscript will be closer to being polished for their editor. Now let’s dive into those bewildering questions that every writer is itching to know.

Why does an author need Beta Readers?

I’m sorry to report that no manuscript is perfect, and mistakes are inevitable. This is where the beta readers come into play as they have the ability to point out inconsistencies in world-building, character description and plot lines.

How does an author find Beta Readers?

There are several resources that an author can elevate to find beta readers. Members of writing groups or communities is a great place to start. Other options are acquaintances (not to be confused with friends), a colleague or friends of friends. 

What characteristics or background should Beta Readers have?

The beta readers selected to review an author’s manuscript must first and foremost be a reader, no exceptions! They must also be reliable, someone who can be trusted, is honest with their feedback and reads the genre that the author writes.

How many Beta Readers is too many?

The number of beta readers will really depend on the feedback that the author is seeking.  In my opinion, one beta reader is probably not enough but twenty might be too many as it will be hard to get through that much feedback in time to publish. Another obstacle to think about is that although an author’s beta readers have committed to read their unpublished manuscript, many will not even start or finish by the deadline set.

What does a Beta Reader get in return?           

Beta readers do not make money by reading an author’s unpublished manuscript; however, it can still be rewarding for them. Think about it, they get to read a genre that they love for FREE before anyone else! In addition to this, beta readers get bragging rights that they had input on the published work. For my second book, I will not only provide my Beta Readers with an autographed copy but will also give them credit and mention their names under the acknowledgments page.              

Did I forget to mention that your Beta Readers are also great candidates in leaving a review right when the book debuts thereby increasing visibility with current and future readers.