Ahoy! Readers and Cheerleaders!
Hi! Here @tokyoghoulreversebang, we are organizing an event where writers, artists, and betas from the Tokyo Ghoul fandom team up to make new content together. More information on the event can be found on our About page.
Today, we’re here to help raise awareness about how important are beta readers to a story, dispel some myths, answer questions and who knows? Maybe we’ll convince you to join the Tokyo Ghoul Reverse Bang as a beta! Let’s get right into it!
What is a beta and what exactly do they do?
A beta reader is a test reader of an unreleased work of literature or other writing, who gives feedback from the point of view of an average reader to the author. The point of a beta reader is that an author can see how the audience will react to the story before it gets read by the actual audience.
Here are some aspects of the work betas might do:
Help with the plot/characterization/development
Reading and pointing out what they like and what could be improved upon
CHEERLEADING! Emotional support is important. :D
Are there certain qualifications needed to be a beta reader? Such as having English as your native language?
Nope. Anyone who is interested can sign up as a beta, no qualifications needed! Different authors look for different things in a beta, and not everyone is looking for an English proofreader.
How to be a good beta reader?
Elizabeth Durack, a well known figure in fandoms and knowledgeable in fandom and fanwork culture, characterizes a “good beta reader” as someone who:
admits to the author what his/her own strength and weaknesses are- i.e. “I’m great at beta reading for plot, but not at spelling!”
suggests rather than edits. Calling the author’s attention to the problems helps the author be aware of them and thereby improve.
points out the things they like about the story. Even if it was the worst story you’ve ever read, say something positive about it! See the potential in every story
gives detailed advice about specific ways the author can make their story better.
is tactful, even with things he/she considers major flaws- but honest as well.
lets the author know how long it will take to get the story beta’ed, and tries to be timely about it.
Remember there are no qualifications necessary. It honestly is so satisfying getting to work with a story and help it reach its full potential. Join in the fun, we have a lot of fics you can choose from!
If any of this sounds like something that you are at all interested in please consider signing up here!
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to message us.
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