What is a BETA Reader?

Beta readers read your manuscript with the eye of an average reader.

A beta reader is not an editor. They do not replace editors in any way, shape, or form. (You need an editor, guys.) It is not the beta’s job to catch all your typos (though they will probably catch some). It is not their job to brainstorm solutions to plot holes and problems or fix your boring dialogue, either.

Don’t confuse beta readers with alpha readers or critique partners or sensitivity readers. An alpha reader is the first person who reads your manuscript, normally when it’s in the very early stages. Critique partners are other writers who look at your manuscript as another writer would: with an eye for writing craft issues and mistakes. A sensitivity reader is a professional who reviews a manuscript to provide feedback on how well it represents specific cultures, identities, or experiences that the author may not have direct knowledge of (and they are usually paid).