Beta-Readers

What is a beta-reader? Well, it can be one of many things; a friend, a teacher, or a guardian angel, perhaps. More literally, a beta-reader is some nice person who proof-reads a story before it is published. They help the writer edit their work by fixing mechanical errors and making suggestions about the story's content and plot.

Who needs beta-readers? Technically, it would be nice if everyone had a beta-reader. After all, all published authors go through editors first. While betas are especially helpful to new writers who aren't sure how to format a story, or where they want the action to go, even the most experienced writer can always use another pair of eyes. There's always at least a few typos that you might not catch, and it's better to have someone else point it out to you than to notice it yourself after the chapter is published to Fanfiction.Net! All in all, beta-readers can help you on your way to creating a polished story that you are proud of.

Want to find someone to beta your work?
Click this link to get to a list of willing editors, or email Keza with a request something along the lines of "find me a beta!"

Want to become a beta and help others?
Whether you compulsively edit everything that you read or you just want an excuse to read more fanfiction, you should consider contributing to the community and volunteering to beta. Just email Keza with your name, email, and preferences (if any).

Want more info?
Read the following article for an example of what a beta does, as well as helpful tips and advice for both working with and as a beta.
Beta-Readers Guide