Tag: Beta Reading

Beta reading is a truly marvelous idea, and every writer should make an effort to work with beta readers.

Why Does Beta Reading Matter So Much?

You aren’t going to know everything about your genre. Or your audience. Or even your own story. And that’s all right.

A beta reader can help you fix and polish your work. They can tell you when something isn’t working. And they can tell you when you’re really off-base.

What if the Beta Reader is Mean to Me?

You know, that has happened to me. And all that has done has been, truly, two separate things.

One, I tend to ignore feedback that comes with a sneer. Sorry, folks, but I do have an ego. You don’t have to tell me everything is awesome. But at the same time, there’s no need for you to tear me a new one, either, now, is there?

Two, I don’t work with that person any more. Petty? Maybe. But like I said above, there’s no reason to be a jerk.

What if the Beta Reader is Kind to Me?

Just a thank you may or may not be enough. When I’ve been in a good place financially, I have sent beta readers Amazon gift cards. Is this because I want them to buy my stuff? Only a little bit. It’s more to tell them — this is meaningful to me.

And I put my money, quite literally, where my mouth is.

So, be good to your better beta readers.