In Part 1, I emphasized the process of critiques. Critiques often come in the development phase of writing. It’s where the author has offered a short piece in progress (three pages or fewer), or has difficulty developing particular areas of the writing.

Part 2 now focuses on Beta Readers. What are beta readers? They are trusted colleagues who read and comment on your completed self-edited manuscript before it is professionally edited.

From my experiences as both a beta reader and as a recipient of others reading my complete manuscript, I’ve learned more about what to expect.

SPECIFIC GUIDELINES ARE AN ASSET

In my first attempt at asking others to be beta readers, I gave few guidelines. I discovered that some of my readers needed more specific questions to direct their thinking. I began to outline questions, such as:

• Does the introduction “hook” you, draw you into the story?
• Is the structure coherent? Are the plot points developed well?
• Are you confused at any point in the story? (If so, that means I haven’t given enough detail, there are jumps in logic, or transitions are lacking or insufficient, etc. If the beta reader is confused about something, readers are likely to become confused too.)
• (Invite them to give you advice on particular issues where you need clarification.)

THE SKILLS YOUR READERS BRING

In the process, I’ve discovered that beta readers bring in their individual skills, styles, and perceptions. Such variety is valuable for heightening your written enhancements.  

You may find a reader who focuses on grammatical structures, better phrasing and word choices, or repetitions.

Another may comment on how they connect (or disconnect) with your story. They may give you a personal reflection that can improve your own piece.

Or someone may be adept at pointing out areas that confuse them. These responses provide keys to how your writing resonates or can resonate with readers.

Some readers want to stretch your thinking and enrich your writing in such areas as character development, backstory, and contextual information.

Still others may question your theological gaps or misunderstanding and will point you in the right direction.

And beyond these items, you may find a reader who gives you a thorough edit.

PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS

In today’s world of technology, it’s easiest to email a document. I ask my readers to highlight changes or write comments in red, or use the “Review: New Comment” feature.

You will want this process to be efficient. Give your readers a set time frame of two to four weeks to return their comments to you. 

You may find that some readers respond immediately, while others comment briefly or do not comment at all. Accept that they may have other pressing demands, may not be knowledgeable about your topic, or even may not feel qualified to give you feedback.

CONCLUSION

Honest feedback with reliable critique partners and beta readers takes time but is very helpful and informative for both the reader and the writer. As the Scriptures say, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17 NLT), and “Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed” (Ecclesiastes 4:9 NLT). Your project will be stronger when you make critiquing and beta reading part of your writing process.