If you’re serious about publishing your writing one day, you’re going to need beta readers. Not only is feedback a crucial part of the editing process, but beta readers can give you the confidence you need to share your writing with the rest of the world.
But the process of finding beta readers is far more complex than simply yelling: “WHO WANTS TO BETA READ MY BOOK?” In fact, that’s the very last thing you want to do. Beta readers should be hand-picked and highly qualified to read your book and give you feedback. You will be heeding the words of these people as you fine-tune your story into a masterpiece.
I get a lot of questions about beta readers. Mostly: how many do I have, who are they, and what do I ask them after they read my book. Which is why I decided it’s high time I make a whole video about this topic! Beta readers are a vital part of the writing/publishing process, and that’s why it’s so important to get this right. If you choose the wrong beta readers and ask them the wrong questions, you could potentially harm your story instead of making it better.
In today’s episode of WritersLife Wednesdays, we get super into it:
- when to look for beta readers
- the 4 things that qualify someone to beta read your book
- why your own family can be awesome candidates
- what to ask your betas when they finish reading your book
Questions I ask my beta readers:
- What did you think of the story as a whole?
- How did the characters develop throughout the story?
- At what point did you feel like “ah, now the story has really begun!”
- Were there any parts you found yourself skimming?
- What was your favorite part of the story and why?
- What was the most suspenseful moment in the book?
- Who was your favorite character and why?
- Were there any moments you wish lasted longer?
- What is the theme/message you took away from the story?
Let’s talk.
Let’s talk beta readers! How do you find YOUR beta readers? Are you related to any of them? What are your favorite questions to ask them? Let’s discuss in the comments below!
If you liked this episode of WritersLife Wednesday, please share it with a writer friend! Also be sure to subscribe to my channel to get new videos every Wednesday all about writing, publishing, and making your author dreams come true.
Rock on,
Abbie
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