Hi ,
As you probably know, beta readers are an integral part of the revision process for most books.
A beta reader is a non-professional reader who reads a written work with the intent of looking over the material to find and improve elements such as grammar and spelling, as well as
suggestions to improve the story, its characters, or its setting. Beta reading is typically done before the story is released for public consumption.
Beta readers are important because they provide authors with a unique opportunity to get actionable feedback from real readers prior to finalizing and publishing a book.
(If you are wondering where the weird term “beta” comes from, it started with those wacky
engineers. When software is developed, the initial version is called the “alpha” version. The “beta” version is the version people start using to test functionality and seek out bugs in the software. Hence, the moniker “beta readers.”)
Unfortionately, a lot of authors make a MAJOR mistake by going to beta readers too early.
(Hint: It's probably not when you think!)
Your pal in writing,
Kevin T. Johns, writing coach
P.S. Looking for community, coaching, and writer's craft training so that you can become the best author you can be?
Check out Writer's Craft Academy, my private membership site and group coaching program that takes members from aspiring writers to published authors.
