Beta Readers: The Literary World’s Testers

Where Does The Term "Beta Reading" Come From?

The word “beta” is a term used in software development. “Beta testers” review rough or imperfect versions of the software. They look for problems, flaws, and weaknesses before the official launch. They also look for issues future customers may encounter.

Beta readers are the beta testers of the literary world. Beta readers look for problems, flaws, and weaknesses in manuscripts such as plot holes, structural issues, and incorrect word usage, underdeveloped character arcs, worldbuilding inconsistencies, and character inconsistencies. Beta readers provide feedback that is honest, unbiased, useful, and constructive.

Is Beta Reading Editing?

Because the beta reader gives feedback from a reader-only perspective, beta reading is not considered editing, nor does the beta reader contribute writing material to the manuscript. However, choosing to use a beta reader can reduce the cost of editing, as more rounds of editing means more money spent by the author.

While newer on the scene of book publishing, beta reading is nevertheless a unique service that many authors use to add value to their books.