Beta Reading

What is a beta reader?

A beta reader is someone who reads through stories with the intention of correcting spelling/grammar, pointing out plot inconsistencies and making comments about how he/she feels the story could be improved.

Do I need one?

Speaking as someone who is happiest working alone - yes.  I thought I could do my best work in isolation, but very soon learnt that having someone else's honest opinion on my stories was a great help.  There are things you would never spot on your own, and that other opinion can be invaluable. 

Where do I find one?

There are sites out there that either post beta readers' names up or will take appeals for a beta reader.  Or just ask a friend, but whatever way you find one, make sure it is someone who will give you an honest opinion, not someone who just wants to read the stories! 

I am eager to beta read.  I promise that I will:

1.    Be kind!  the number one rule of beta reading.

2.    confirm receipt of your story.

3.    Give at least preliminary feedback within a week - usually, for shorter stories, complete feedback in less than a week.  However, I do ask that you contact me first and see if I am available.  I cannot return stories this quickly if I'm away from home for a few days.

4.    Work with you to improve your story, without rewriting it for you.   It is YOUR work, and I will give my opinion, which you can accept or reject as you wish.

5.    Check spelling, grammar, continuity, consistency, accuracy and anything else you specifically ask me to check.

I am an ex-proof reader, and an avid Stargate Fan, with particular emphasis on Daniel and Jonas.   I can accept documents either from Word (up to office 2000), WordPad, TXT or RTF, or pasted into e-mail.