“Kate exceeded my expectations while helping me with my first historical novel. She has a gift for explaining her edits clearly and succinctly with tact and sensitivity. I found her well-organized, and she communicates promptly.”
- S.D. Speer, aspiring author
Feeling overwhelmed or unsure about what editing service you need or what stage your manuscript is in?
No worries! I can review your manuscript with:
If you know you are ready to dig in, I can do a
My most comprehensive and popular service (for independent and traditionally publishing authors alike) is the which incorporates aspects of developmental editing through line edits to copy edits.
If another editor has already helped you with developmental and line edits, and you're ready for a fresh set of eyes (remember, it takes a village!), I also offer:
See descriptions of all these services in the sections below, both separated for convenience and combined for continuity and savings.
Also check out my and a description of the to check out what I'm talking about/what you would be getting if you signed up for that service (or for those of you who might be interested in providing fresh eyes for other writers).
No worries! I can review your manuscript with:
- an alpha assessment
- a basic beta
- or a beta plus
If you know you are ready to dig in, I can do a
- sample edit of about 1,000 words to see if we are a good fit.
My most comprehensive and popular service (for independent and traditionally publishing authors alike) is the which incorporates aspects of developmental editing through line edits to copy edits.
If another editor has already helped you with developmental and line edits, and you're ready for a fresh set of eyes (remember, it takes a village!), I also offer:
- Copy edits
- Final Polish (proofread)
See descriptions of all these services in the sections below, both separated for convenience and combined for continuity and savings.
Also check out my and a description of the to check out what I'm talking about/what you would be getting if you signed up for that service (or for those of you who might be interested in providing fresh eyes for other writers).
General Notes
Check out my BFF Resources page
The editing process is done in MS Word with Track Changes turned on.
Rates are normally calculated in US Dollars, but see the calculation section of Business page for more information as well as the policies section for such details as my Series Security.
- for my more visual representation of the writing/editing process
- for my definitions and use of publishing terminology
- for my descriptions and analogies of the editing stages.
The editing process is done in MS Word with Track Changes turned on.
Rates are normally calculated in US Dollars, but see the calculation section of Business page for more information as well as the policies section for such details as my Series Security.
“Kate was insightful, clever, and supportive of my work. Reading Kate's commentary and thoughtful edits felt like sitting down with a good friend over a latte to chat about my book.”
- Samanth MacLeod, author
Alpha Assessment Q&A
Q - What is an Alpha Assessment?
A - An Alpha Assessment is:
An Alpha Assessment review is not detailed or exhaustive. It’s about general impressions with the goal of pointing the author toward some critical issues that need to be sorted or reassessed to make their story stronger.
- overview assessment, generalized commentary in document to point out critical issues
- brief summarizing report with recommendations for next steps
- Note - If you subsequently hire me for an editing service package, I'll apply this fee toward that service (within six months).
An Alpha Assessment review is not detailed or exhaustive. It’s about general impressions with the goal of pointing the author toward some critical issues that need to be sorted or reassessed to make their story stronger.
Q - Who might need this service?
A - Some authors have an alpha reader on their support team to give early feedback, answering such questions as:
A professional editor can be a big help at this stage.
Or an author might want to get a fresh assessment of a previously published story that isn’t getting the love they expected from reviewers. I can evaluate what might have gone amiss or what might need a bit of tweaking to get the story back on track.
It makes sense to hire a professional editor to be your alpha reader. I offer much more than just my opinions on what I do or don’t like. Besides assessing the merits of your story and structure, I'll suggest general writing craft tips that will give you a leg up with your self-edits, saving you time and money when you're ready to hire an editor.
- Was I confused?
- Could I relate to any of the characters?
- Did the plot hold my attention?
A professional editor can be a big help at this stage.
Or an author might want to get a fresh assessment of a previously published story that isn’t getting the love they expected from reviewers. I can evaluate what might have gone amiss or what might need a bit of tweaking to get the story back on track.
It makes sense to hire a professional editor to be your alpha reader. I offer much more than just my opinions on what I do or don’t like. Besides assessing the merits of your story and structure, I'll suggest general writing craft tips that will give you a leg up with your self-edits, saving you time and money when you're ready to hire an editor.
Q - What will this report include?
A - In my report I’ll address:
As part of this service, I'll assess and advise what I think your next step should be in terms of editing as well.
- story opening
- characterization
- pacing and tension
- motivation and believability
- confusions and inconsistencies
- writing technique
- reader impact
- afterglow - lingering impressions
As part of this service, I'll assess and advise what I think your next step should be in terms of editing as well.
Q - What will this assessment cost?
A - I charge $10/1,000 words for an Alpha Assessment. (See fee calculations for more about this.)
If you think your story - either new or previously published - would benefit from this kind of caring, professional scrutiny with an eye toward assessing reader impact, I would be happy to work with you. I’ll read your story (preferably sent in the standard Word format) and write up a review, often in just a week.
BONUS: If you hire me to edit this manuscript within six months, I’ll apply a discount to the additional service.
BONUS: If you hire me to edit this manuscript within six months, I’ll apply a discount to the additional service.
Looking for honest, constructive, and kind feedback on an early draft of your manuscript?
Contact BFF Editing Today!
Contact BFF Editing Today!
“I’ve been working with Kate since 2018, and her beta reading services always exceed my expectations. Her comments are clear and easy to understand, and she makes me feel like I have a true partner in making my story come to life. I HIGHLY recommend her.”
- Tamsin Ley, author
Basic Beta Read Q&A
Q - What is the BFF Basic Beta Read?
A - The Basic Beta is NOT an edit. Some people use the term beta read in other ways, but my definition of what this is and what it entails can be found in various places in my website.
See: beta readers, Beta Brigade, and editing stages.
Q - So what is it, then, if not an edit?
A - Now and then I have a bit of wiggle room in my schedule that allows for a single read-through of a story (preferably sent in the standard Word format).
I set aside my metaphorical red pen to just read your book and offer feedback from a professional perspective with a few suggestions thrown in for good measure (e.g., “This is a bit confusing” or “I love how you describe this!” or “I think this conflicts with what you said earlier?” or "You made me tear up!")
I set aside my metaphorical red pen to just read your book and offer feedback from a professional perspective with a few suggestions thrown in for good measure (e.g., “This is a bit confusing” or “I love how you describe this!” or “I think this conflicts with what you said earlier?” or "You made me tear up!")
Q - When and why would a writer hire someone to do a beta read?
A - This service is appropriate early in the self-editing stage to get feedback on whether things make sense and are hitting the mark. It fits into the process before hiring an editor.
While I may make some editing suggestions regarding things that jump out at me, let me reiterate: This is not an edit. But unlike your Aunt Matilda, I'll give you constructive feedback in a timely manner. :)
I will probably notice and flag some general patterns, but at this stage of self-edits and re-writes, a lot can change, so I won't scour your manuscript for typos or comma splices. This is mostly just me giving feedback as a thoughtful, experienced reader because I love a good story. Maybe I’ve mentioned that. ;)
BONUS: If you hire me to edit this manuscript within six months, I’ll apply a discount to those additional services.
While I may make some editing suggestions regarding things that jump out at me, let me reiterate: This is not an edit. But unlike your Aunt Matilda, I'll give you constructive feedback in a timely manner. :)
I will probably notice and flag some general patterns, but at this stage of self-edits and re-writes, a lot can change, so I won't scour your manuscript for typos or comma splices. This is mostly just me giving feedback as a thoughtful, experienced reader because I love a good story. Maybe I’ve mentioned that. ;)
BONUS: If you hire me to edit this manuscript within six months, I’ll apply a discount to those additional services.
Q - What does this service cost?
A - I charge $8/1,000 words for a Basic Beta read of your manuscript. (See fee calculations for an explanation of how fees are reached.)
Do you need honest reader feedback along side constructive editorial suggestions?
Fill out my Contact Form to start the conversation!
Fill out my Contact Form to start the conversation!
“Kate gets to the heart of the issue, communicating her concerns and suggesting remedies. She is generous, gentle, and a true pleasure to partner with. New writers to experienced novelists would all get their money's worth (and more) from working with Kate.”
- Lisa-Marie Cabrelli, author
Beta Plus Q&A
Q - What is the Beta Plus?
A - The Beta Plus includes:
- beta reader-type feedback
- light developmental commentary in the margins of the manuscript using Track Changes
- summarizing report
- follow-up consultation
Q - Who might benefit from this service?
A - Let’s face it, it’s probably awkward for family or friends to try to critique your work. And many authors lack a support team with the experience or training to give candid, discerning, and insightful feedback in the earlier stages of story development.
Q - What does it look like?
A - In the margins of the manuscript, I describe, as a reader, when, how, and if:
I also offer editorial feedback regarding:
- confusions arise
- emotions were engaged
- characters were relatable
I also offer editorial feedback regarding:
- general consistency of verb tense
- point of view
- vocabulary suggestions
- the need for more description or less
In a separate document I offer light developmental feedback on:
- the plot's cohesiveness and believability
- character development
- narrative voice
- flow
- pacing
- tension
- continuity
- clarity
- consistency
- point of view
- writing patterns
Q - How much does this service cost?
A - I charge $12/1,000 words for my Beta Plus service. If you'd like me to create a Book Map as well, it is $15/1,000 words. (See fee calculations for an explanation of how fees are reached.)
Looking for a friendly guide and companion
on this sometimes overwhelming journey toward publication?
Fill out my Contact Form today
to tell me about your story, your process, your dreams!
on this sometimes overwhelming journey toward publication?
Fill out my Contact Form today
to tell me about your story, your process, your dreams!
“Kate has been an absolute pleasure to work with. Her edits are thorough and improve the clarity, consistency, tone and impact of every sentence. It's clear she takes pride in her work. She is supportive and respects my voice as an author. Her style sheet has been an amazing resource.”
- Renae Wright, author
Content Edit Q&A
Q - What is a Content Edit?
A - A Content Edit is a multi-phased (at least three rounds) process.
It includes:
- clarification of the big picture and specifics
- detailed commentary and inline suggestion (using Track Changes in a Word document) of developmental and substantive issues
- a thorough copy edit
It includes:
- editorial reader commentary
- option of getting more eyes on your story from early on with my BFF Beta Brigade
- multiple rounds of line and copy edit suggestions/explanations made inline and in the margins using Track Changes
- simple style sheet detailing word and style choices, lists of characters, and world elements in an expandable format, shared on a Google Doc
- follow-up consultation/spot check/cleanup
Q - What does that look like?
A - A multi-phased evaluation means, generally speaking, in the first round I will look over the whole manuscript with an eye for developmental issues. On the second and third rounds, I look at substance, style, and flow. I will also check for inconsistencies, patterns, homonyms, passive verb construction, overused words, etc. and create a style sheet. In the third round of edits I focus more on copy edits and syntax.
Developmental Editing - feedback regarding:
- cohesiveness
- believability
- narrative voice
- flow
- pacing
- continuity
- clarity
- point of view
- vocabulary suggestions
- writing patterns
- the need for more or less description
- obvious verb tense discrepancies
Substantive/Content & Line Edits - assessing and suggesting ways to:
- organize content
- reduce triteness or wordiness
- ensure clarity of meaning
- enhance flow and cohesion of the narrative
- assess naturalness of the dialogue
Copy/Mechanical Edit - checking
- grammar
- consistency
- adherence to the manual of style (usually Chicago Manual of Style), which deals with spelling, abbreviations, punctuation, capitalization, formatting, etc.
Q - Who might benefit from this service?
A - This service deals primarily with the meat and bones of the story.
Writers who have their own critique groups to help them with plotting and organization, or those on a tighter budget who have another resource for proofreading, or those who plan to submit their story for traditional publishing would all benefit from this level of edit.
Writers who have their own critique groups to help them with plotting and organization, or those on a tighter budget who have another resource for proofreading, or those who plan to submit their story for traditional publishing would all benefit from this level of edit.
Q - How much does this service cost?
A - I charge $25-40/1,000 words for a Content Edit of your manuscript. (See fee calculations for an explanation of how fees are reached.)
*If you'd like to take advantage of my Beta Brigade, getting their feedback could take place during or after my first round of either my beta read or after we've tidied things up a bit. Keep in mind when calculating timelines that beta readers usually need a few weeks to read and report back.
If you reckon your story needs a broader scope and degree of edits, check out my packaged services for greater efficiency and savings.
Do you need a knowledgeable, friendly collaborator on your writing journey?
BFF Editing might be a perfect fit!
To find out, let's start with my Contact Form!
BFF Editing might be a perfect fit!
To find out, let's start with my Contact Form!
“Kate is thorough and clearly explains the reasons behind her proposed changes. As a non-native English speaker, I love that she takes the time to teach me the subtleties that sometimes elude me in grammar, syntax, vocabulary, and even idioms. She handles your book, and your voice as an author, with the utmost respect.”
- Regine Abel, USA Today Bestselling Author
Copy Cleanup Q&A
Q - What is a Copy Cleanup?
A - A Copy Cleanup is an edit focusing on conventions, tightening grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, word choice, and other mechanical issues (sometimes called copy editing).
It includes:
It includes:
- multiple rounds (2 minimum) of edits with Track Changes (minimal explanations or commentary)
- simple style sheet detailing word and style choices, lists of characters, and world elements in an expandable format, shared on Google Docs
- spot check and cleanup
Q - Who might benefit from a Copy Cleanup?
A - I envision this service helping:
- an experienced author with a story that is developmentally solid.
- an author who's already hired me to do an Alpha or Beta service on their manuscript (i.e. I'm already familiar with their style and the world they've built).
Q - What does it look like?
A - In the first round of edits, I focus on conventions and mechanical issues. The author makes corrections and adjustments as they see fit and sends it back for a second round.
During the second round of edits, I create a basic style sheet and read through the whole story again to catch mechanical issues that may have been missed or introduced (not a proofread).
During the second round of edits, I create a basic style sheet and read through the whole story again to catch mechanical issues that may have been missed or introduced (not a proofread).
Mechanical Edit - ensuring correctness of basic conventions such as:
- grammar
- spelling
- punctuation
- sentence structure
- syntax
- vocabulary
- symmetry
- other mechanics of style
Q - How much would this service cost?
A - I charge $20-30/1,000 words for my Copy Cleanup of your manuscript. (See fee calculations for an explanation of how fees are reached.)
If your story needs substantive as well as mechanical edits, check out my packaged services and save.
Looking for a conscientious editor
who'll polish your story with consideration and care?
You've come to the right place!
Fill out my Contact Form today!
who'll polish your story with consideration and care?
You've come to the right place!
Fill out my Contact Form today!
NOTE - A plea to authors: whenever possible, send fully edited stories to your ARC readers.
Everyone's experience will be better if you plan ahead and don't rush the process. When calculating your timing for things, ARC readers should get at least a week (2-3 is better) to read the book. And your proofreader needs at least a week (2-3 is better) after that.
If you are asking your ARC team to write a fair and honest review of your story, you want them to be reading (and enjoying) the edited copy. It is not the fans' job (nor are they likely trained) to provide authors with lists of typos they've found. Don't put them in the awkward position of having to come to you with a list of editing issues (if they are generous with their time) or of writing a bad review (if they are scrupulously honest and thinking of the future reading enjoyment of others).
Be a good Book Friend and put your best work out there for all the world to read, beginning with your loyal Stars of your Support team.
If you are asking your ARC team to write a fair and honest review of your story, you want them to be reading (and enjoying) the edited copy. It is not the fans' job (nor are they likely trained) to provide authors with lists of typos they've found. Don't put them in the awkward position of having to come to you with a list of editing issues (if they are generous with their time) or of writing a bad review (if they are scrupulously honest and thinking of the future reading enjoyment of others).
Be a good Book Friend and put your best work out there for all the world to read, beginning with your loyal Stars of your Support team.
“With BFF Editing Services . . . I feel like my book was thoroughly edited and errors were found that I otherwise missed . . . It was a stress-free experience with a very friendly editor. I would wholeheartedly recommend BFF Editing.”
- Grace Risata, author
Final Polish Q&A
Q - What is the Final Polish?
A - To avoid confusion, BFF Editing has chosen to refer to the post editing, fine-tooth-comb read-through of a manuscript as a “final polish” rather than a “proofread.”
It includes:
The Final Polish makes your work all shiny for your readers, catching and correcting overlooked issues that have managed to slip through the rigorous scrutiny of the other stages, such as:
It includes:
- 2-3 passes through a Word manuscript or a PDF of the manuscript
- Note - if I have edited your book, I subcontract this service, but I review.
- Bonus: reader feedback in the margins, if you so desire
The Final Polish makes your work all shiny for your readers, catching and correcting overlooked issues that have managed to slip through the rigorous scrutiny of the other stages, such as:
- typos
- formatting
- homonyms
- punctuation
- grammar
- subject/verb agreement
A - It is also important to note what the Final Polish is NOT.
It's not an edit since it should not substantively alter the piece. Nor is it technically a proofread in the formal, publishing industry understanding of that term (comparing the proofs, or printed versions of the manuscript with the last edited version to make sure no errors have been introduced during formatting or printing). Many in self-publishing, however, do refer to the final read-through after the edit as a "proofread."
It's not an edit since it should not substantively alter the piece. Nor is it technically a proofread in the formal, publishing industry understanding of that term (comparing the proofs, or printed versions of the manuscript with the last edited version to make sure no errors have been introduced during formatting or printing). Many in self-publishing, however, do refer to the final read-through after the edit as a "proofread."
Q - Why is this service important?
A - This is a crucial step in making your book look professional and ready for readers. You might think this is a pretty simple task. But it is exacting work that takes time, concentration, and multiple passes. Humans can focus for only a limited time with that degree of intensity.
Because the human brain can trick itself, especially when it’s familiar with a piece - seeing what it expects rather than what’s truly printed on the page - it is nearly impossible to manage the necessary distance for your own work. Nor is it recommended to have your editor, who is also intimately familiar with your manuscript, do your final polish. So if I have been the primary editor, we need to bring fresh eyes to the manuscript, and I subcontract this service or outsource it to a trusted peer.
But because I'm the book friend you're trusting to accompany you on your journey to publication, I'll review the manuscript once more for good measure (and the time away from the manuscript will help me see it more clearly).
Because the human brain can trick itself, especially when it’s familiar with a piece - seeing what it expects rather than what’s truly printed on the page - it is nearly impossible to manage the necessary distance for your own work. Nor is it recommended to have your editor, who is also intimately familiar with your manuscript, do your final polish. So if I have been the primary editor, we need to bring fresh eyes to the manuscript, and I subcontract this service or outsource it to a trusted peer.
But because I'm the book friend you're trusting to accompany you on your journey to publication, I'll review the manuscript once more for good measure (and the time away from the manuscript will help me see it more clearly).
Q - How much would this service cost?
A - I charge $10-20/1,000 words for a Final Polish of your manuscript. (See fee calculations for an explanation of how fees are reached.)
If your story needs a more substantive edit, check out my packaged services and save.
Looking for a conscientious editor who'll polish your story
with an exacting eye and attention to detail?
I am just such an editor!
Fill out the BFF Editing Contact Form today,
and let's get started!
with an exacting eye and attention to detail?
I am just such an editor!
Fill out the BFF Editing Contact Form today,
and let's get started!
As the stages and types of editing often overlap, packaged services provide continuity and economy of effort (for me), which also saves you money!
Choose an Editing Package from the following that works for you:
Substantive Package – 4-5 rounds combining the Beta Plus and the Content Edit services
- Reader feedback/commentary
- Plus: option of getting more eyes on your story with my BFF Beta Brigade
- Developmental/substantive suggestions with explanations in margins
- Line edit suggestions inline with explanations in margins
- Plus: follow-up consultation
- $35/1,000 words
Cleanup Package – 4-5 rounds, combining the Copy Cleanup and the Final Polish services
- Reader feedback/commentary
- Line and copy edit suggestions inline with explanations in margins
- Plus: follow-up consultation/spot check
- Plus: simple style sheet
- Final Polish (subcontracted for fresh eyes with my review)
- $35/1,000 words
Full Edit Package – 5-6 rounds, combining Basic Beta Read, Content Edit, and Copy Cleanup services
- Reader feedback/commentary
- Developmental/substantive suggestions with explanations in margins
- Plus: option of getting more eyes on your story with my BFF Beta Brigade
- Line and copy edit suggestions inline with explanations in margins
- Plus: follow-up consultation/spot check
- Plus: simple style sheet
- $40/1,000 words
Complete Package – 6-7 rounds, combining Beta Plus, Content, Copy Cleanup, and Final Polish
- Reader feedback/commentary
- Plus: option of getting more eyes on your story from my BFF Beta Brigade
- Developmental/substantive suggestions with explanations in margins
- Line and copy edit suggestions inline with explanations in margins
- Plus: follow-up consultation/spot check
- Final Polish (subcontracted for fresh eyes with my review)
- Plus: simple style sheet
- Plus: book blurb edit
- $45/1,000 words
No Fuss Package – 2-3 rounds - same as the Complete Package, but condensed
Note: The No Fuss is a great option for authors who have worked with me before and are comfortable with my style and judgement or for the author who is in a hurry and just wants it done and dusted. :)
This is especially good for shorter, contemporary e-books without complex world building or for mid-series novellas where I know the world and the author’s style.
- First round includes consultation to clarify plot details, intent, characterization, voice, etc.
- Second round - line and copy edits inline without explanation unless requested
- Author presented with clean copy - no picky decision making, no hassle
- Plus: simple style sheet
- Plus: book blurb edit
- $40/1,000 words
Note: The No Fuss is a great option for authors who have worked with me before and are comfortable with my style and judgement or for the author who is in a hurry and just wants it done and dusted. :)
This is especially good for shorter, contemporary e-books without complex world building or for mid-series novellas where I know the world and the author’s style.
Do you need a knowledgeable, friendly collaborator
on your journey toward publication? Maybe I can help!
Fill out the BFF Editing Contact Form today
to start to discussion.
on your journey toward publication? Maybe I can help!
Fill out the BFF Editing Contact Form today
to start to discussion.
" Kate's work is excellent. She was extremely thorough in her edits, sending questions and suggestions with each version. She looked at the manuscript with fresh eyes and condensed, clarified, and reduced unnecessary verbiage while keeping Dr. Cooper's voice intact... I highly recommend Kate's professional editing skills for any type of manuscript."
- Priscilla Hagstrom
Vice President, Marketing and Communications
Cooper Aerobics, Health and Wellness
BFF Editing is happy to help with stories
of creativity, inspiration, and motivation,
which come in all shapes and sizes:
- memoir
- children’s books (picture and chapter)
- business brochures
- web content
- blogs
- essays
$40/hour for material of less than 10,000 words
Add-on Services:
Book Map -
- visual charting of plot and character details as well as story themes, points of view, tension, climax, etc.
- Add-on combined with Beta Plus - $15/1,000 words
Blurb Refurb -
- Does your blurb entice and intrigue?
- Does it invite potential readers into your story without giving too much away?
- $30.00/hour
Consultation -
- communication above and beyond the normal level, especially in the case of video or conference calls
- $20/hour
Hook Help -
- Grabbing your reader's attention, curiosity, empathy, or interest in the opening scene is critical. If you don't hook them early, they may not continue to read.
- $30.00/hour
Spot Check -
- author-requested round of edits beyond contracted service agreement
- $30.00/hour
Smart Style Sheet -
- a style sheet on steroids! For more complex stories/series that involve many characters, world building, etc.
- fee determined based on the level of detail and the manuscript's length
Note: For consistency and to communicate editing decisions to your formatter and proofreader, every book needs at least a simple style sheet, which I include with a number of editing services.
Both levels of style sheet include:
- resource list including style guide and dictionary
- form of English used
- POV and mood
- formatting decisions
- capitalization and hyphenation decisions
- words or spelling unique to the manuscript
Looking for a professional editor who can help you communicate clearly
without sacrificing your own personal flare?
Let's start the conversation in the BFF Editing Contact Form.
without sacrificing your own personal flare?
Let's start the conversation in the BFF Editing Contact Form.
“Kate was incredibly thorough and her editing skills are impeccable, but she also handles an author's ego with humor and grace. I learned to trust her instincts. She is skilled, insightful, intuitive, and has a keen sense of what makes a book engaging. I feel fortunate as an author to have her by my side.”
- Scott Gibson, M.D., aspiring author
Beta readers offer reader feedback that can
help writers refine their stories.
Q - What might incorporating the BFF Beta Brigade into the editing process look like?
A - My Beta Brigade is made up of a group of learned/well-read friends who have volunteered to read my clients' work and offer confidential, thoughtful feedback in a timely manner.
The process looks like this:
I have my author fill out a Google Form describing their piece and what sort of feedback they're looking for. Then from the bios my betas have created, I select readers who seem a good fit for the genre and details of the story. I contact them to see if they are available and interested. We average three per project.
Before sending the manuscript out to them, I may do a quick round of cleanup editing (while doing my own beta reading) to eliminate distracting copyediting issues so the betas can focus better on the message and wording. We give them a deadline—usually 3-4 weeks—to return the document with their feedback in the margins and ask them to fill out a Google Form to collect any specific feedback the author's looking for.
If I haven't already done a tidying round, I will beta read the story simultaneously.
Then I go through all their feedback and offer notes where I particularly agree or disagree (and why) before sending them all back to the author. The author goes through all this feedback and makes any changes to the manuscript they deem appropriate before sending it back to me for my first round of line editing.
The process looks like this:
I have my author fill out a Google Form describing their piece and what sort of feedback they're looking for. Then from the bios my betas have created, I select readers who seem a good fit for the genre and details of the story. I contact them to see if they are available and interested. We average three per project.
Before sending the manuscript out to them, I may do a quick round of cleanup editing (while doing my own beta reading) to eliminate distracting copyediting issues so the betas can focus better on the message and wording. We give them a deadline—usually 3-4 weeks—to return the document with their feedback in the margins and ask them to fill out a Google Form to collect any specific feedback the author's looking for.
If I haven't already done a tidying round, I will beta read the story simultaneously.
Then I go through all their feedback and offer notes where I particularly agree or disagree (and why) before sending them all back to the author. The author goes through all this feedback and makes any changes to the manuscript they deem appropriate before sending it back to me for my first round of line editing.
Q - Who are Beta Readers?
A - Beta Readers are passionate readers who are prepared to
- read a manuscript in an unpolished form before it has gone through professional editing—noting, as a reader, what works for them and what does not
- provide honest, respectful feedback
- return their feedback in a timely fashion
Q - What qualifications do betas need?
A - It’s quite straightforward.
- Beta readers should love to read and have a sincere desire to help writers create better books.
- Ideally, beta readers are avid readers of the book's genre.
- Beta readers do NOT need any specific or technical knowledge of writing craft or rules of grammar.
- Beta readers should only take on a book if they have time to read and report in a timely manner.
- Beta readers should be generous and specific with their thoughtful feedback.
Q - What kind of feedback do betas need to give?
A - Beta readers should provide feedback on such issues as:
- confusing sentences or plot points
- where their attention wavered
- whether they found the characters/dialogue believable, likeable, sympathetic, etc.
Top 5 Tips for Betas Responding to an author:
1. Be honest –
Be prepared to answer the author's questions clearly but constructively, even if your response is critical or negative. They're asking because they want and need to know.
2. Be thoughtful and kind –
The Beta Reader's role is to provide constructive criticism without being deliberately or carelessly hurtful. "Your plot is stupid," or "I thought your main character was an absolute idiot" can make the author feel hurt or defensive while not telling them, specifically, what you think needs to be changed. Focus on possible solutions, rather than the problem, such as: "Have you considered ..." "What if the main character ..." or "I like it when the hero ..."
Be prepared to answer the author's questions clearly but constructively, even if your response is critical or negative. They're asking because they want and need to know.
2. Be thoughtful and kind –
The Beta Reader's role is to provide constructive criticism without being deliberately or carelessly hurtful. "Your plot is stupid," or "I thought your main character was an absolute idiot" can make the author feel hurt or defensive while not telling them, specifically, what you think needs to be changed. Focus on possible solutions, rather than the problem, such as: "Have you considered ..." "What if the main character ..." or "I like it when the hero ..."
3. Be punctual and considerate by observing deadlines –
Keep in mind, authors are depending on your feedback and probably have deadlines to meet that can't easily be altered. Once you agree to a deadline, keep it, or let the author know as soon as possible if you can't.
4. Be respectful of the author's:
Beta readers must not share what they've read nor use it in any other format or forum, public or private. Beta readers will not comment publicly, nor review, nor offer opinions regarding this work in progress.
Keep in mind, authors are depending on your feedback and probably have deadlines to meet that can't easily be altered. Once you agree to a deadline, keep it, or let the author know as soon as possible if you can't.
4. Be respectful of the author's:
- Vision -
- Autonomy -
- Trust -
Beta readers must not share what they've read nor use it in any other format or forum, public or private. Beta readers will not comment publicly, nor review, nor offer opinions regarding this work in progress.
5. And finally, be specific –
Neither "I really loved it" nor "I thought the plot was boring" are much help to the author.
Author Connie Flynn advises that we avoid "Why did you ...?" comments as "Why" questions tend to put people on the defensive. I've adapted her alternatives:
Neither "I really loved it" nor "I thought the plot was boring" are much help to the author.
Author Connie Flynn advises that we avoid "Why did you ...?" comments as "Why" questions tend to put people on the defensive. I've adapted her alternatives:
- I don't understand __ (whatever it is).
- This detail seems __ (to slow the pace, to be unnecessary, etc.)
- The __ (character, setting, etc.) is coming across as __ (feisty, depressing, important, etc). Is that what you intended?
- Did you want to convey __ (irritation, happiness, whatever)?
- Wasn't __ (John a blue-eyed man, Sally shy, etc.) in Chapter __? (used to point out inconsistency)
- Carol's __ (motivation, goal, etc.) seems to be __. Is that your intent?
- And most important: I really liked __. (ending your feedback with a positive!)
Beta readers might ask ...
What if __ ?
- I want to read and review the finished (ARC) manuscript? - Buy the book or make arrangements with the author.
- I choose not to finish the piece? - Let the author know straight away, explaining where you stopped and why and being as specific as possible without being rude.
- I notice grammar and spelling errors? - Feel free to point them out, but do not be overly concerned as this is a perfectly natural occurrence since the beta reading stage happens before the editing (let alone the proofreading) stage. Your focus should be on big picture feedback and/or focusing on what the author has specified.
- I don't like a scene or a character? - You can comment on it, but it is not your job to rewrite. And this is not the place to air your pet peeves.
If this sounds like something you are able and happy to do, please fill out a Contact Form.
I'll then send you a Google Form in which you can describe your preferred
genres, comfort levels, and interests
so that we can match you with stories that work for you.
I'll then send you a Google Form in which you can describe your preferred
genres, comfort levels, and interests
so that we can match you with stories that work for you.
If you have difficulty accessing any part of this website, please contact us at: [email protected], and we will assist you.
Content Copyright © 2018, Kathryn Schieber,
BFF (Book Friends Forever) Editing. All rights reserved.
Logo created by Benjamin Schieber
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BFF (Book Friends Forever) Editing. All rights reserved.
Logo created by Benjamin Schieber
Proudly powered by Weebly