Make Your Editor’s Job Easier (and Cheaper) With Beta Readers
A simple system for gathering meaningful feedback.
“How can I make my manuscript the very best it can be BEFORE I send it to my editor?”
This is a question I’ve heard many times from writers. Last week I shared five self-editing hacks you can use. Once you’ve gone through that process, there’s one more step I recommend before you hand your manuscript over to a professional editor: get feedback from beta readers.
So what does that look like in practice? Let’s walk through the process.
1. Find the right people
The best beta readers are avid readers and fellow writers who are already familiar with your genre. (Hmmm I think Substack is a great place to find them!) For example, if you’re writing a cozy mystery, find people who love devouring mysteries, not just any reader. The closer your beta readers’ experience matches your target audience, the more useful their feedback will be.
2. Draft a clear email with questions
Don’t just send your manuscript and say, “Tell me what you think.” That’s too vague, and you’ll get scattered responses. Instead, give your beta readers specific questions to guide their feedback. For instance:
Does the story or explanation flow smoothly?
Did I transition well from one idea to another?
Do I draw you in as a reader using the five senses?
Do you think any ideas are missing?
Was the book interesting all the way through, or are there chapters I need to fix?
Any other comments or suggestions?
This focused approach makes it easier for them, and more valuable for you.
3. Send your manuscript (with clear expectations)
Once you’ve drafted your email, send it out to 6–10 people who have already agreed to read your work and provide feedback. Be sure to attach the file or share a link. Also, let them know roughly how much time you’re giving them to complete the review. Three to four weeks is reasonable.
4. Follow up politely
At the end of that timeframe, reach out to anyone you haven’t heard back from. A gentle reminder is often all that’s needed. (And if someone doesn’t respond at all, don’t take it personally. Life sometimes gets in the way for all of us!)
5. Read the feedback and decide what to use
Here’s where discernment comes in. If two or more beta readers point out the same issue, that’s a strong sign you should revisit that section. But if only one reader makes a suggestion you don’t agree with, you’re free to leave it as is. Remember: it’s your book.
“Feedback is a free education to excellence. Seek it with sincerity and receive it with grace.” Ann Marie Houghtailing
Using beta readers is one of the most effective ways to refine your manuscript before investing in editing. Not only does it improve the quality of your book, but it also helps you see your writing through fresh eyes, just like your future readers will.
Are you currently working on a manuscript? If so, which step are you in—self-editing, beta reading, or editing? I’d love to hear from you in the comments.
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