Beta reader

A beta reader is a test reader of an unreleased work[1] of literature or other writing (similar to beta testing in software), who gives feedback from the point of view of an average reader to the author.[2] A beta reader provides advice and comments in the opinions of an average reader.[3] This feedback can be used by the writer to fix remaining issues with plot, pacing, and consistency. The beta reader also serves as a sounding board to see if the book has had the intended intellectual and/or emotional impact on the target market.

Origin

"Beta reader" is an English term originally borrowed from the information technology/software industry where beta testers try to identify problems in a piece of computer software before its release.[2]

Differences from other roles

A proofreader usually only looks at grammar and spelling and is a paid professional. A critique partner is a trained writer who "test reads" from the perspective of an author, unlike a beta reader who has less experience with writing, but much experience reading many genres of fiction, and non-fiction. A beta reader can also serve as an alpha reader when reading a book draft that is still without an ending or is completely unrevised. Typically, a beta reader reviews a draft that has gone through at least one revision. Alpha and beta readers must be well educated generally, with a good knowledge of current affairs. This enables them to read works in the current context, with regard to both world affairs and the target market that the work is aimed at. A sensitivity reader is a beta reader from a culture that the writer is not familiar with.[4]

See also

References
  1. Karen Hellekson, Kristina Busse (2006). Fan Fiction and Fan Communities in the Age of the Internet: New Essays. McFarland. pp. 15, 43, 172–179. ISBN 0786454962.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: uses authors parameter (link)
  2. "What Is a Beta Reader? (with picture)". wiseGEEK. Retrieved 24 March 2018.
  3. , Beta Reader
  4. Kole, Mary (22 October 2021). "What Is a Sensitivity Reader?". Good Story Company. Archived from the original on 8 December 2021. Retrieved 9 December 2021.
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