#1 JUL 17, 2007 · 18 yr ago
Figured I'd make a post for betas - for both those volunteering their services and those seeking them.
Just post whether you need one or are willing to be one here.
For those who don't know, a beta is someone - hopefuly who's honest and impartial - who knows enough about writing mechanics (grammar, spelling, formatting, etc) to help you edit your writing. Often, betas will also go the extra mile and also suggest improvements to your plot, characterization, dialogue, and/or point out other elements of the story that are weak or confusing to them, in the hopes of helping you produce the best story you can, over all. Definitely let the beta know if all you want is the technical help, though, as some folks may not want the hard crit of the other elements of their work and/or would rather let the reader decide.
At any rate, try to be clear, get along, and realize that not every suggestion may be employed by the writer.
As for me, I wouldn't mind having a beta. A fresh pair of eyes is always a plus for writers. I do prefer people who aren't my friends if I can find it, because I'll trust the feedback/suggestions better if I feel they're not sugar-coating out of friendship. That and SITS is a long story that's only going to take longer, so a beta for that is going to have to be dedicated to put it mildly :oops: PM me, however, if you're interested.
Volunteering, on the other hand, isn't possible for me at this time. I have way too much going on as it is, and reading/editing is time consuming. Other volunteers should consider that as well, before offering.
Just post whether you need one or are willing to be one here.
For those who don't know, a beta is someone - hopefuly who's honest and impartial - who knows enough about writing mechanics (grammar, spelling, formatting, etc) to help you edit your writing. Often, betas will also go the extra mile and also suggest improvements to your plot, characterization, dialogue, and/or point out other elements of the story that are weak or confusing to them, in the hopes of helping you produce the best story you can, over all. Definitely let the beta know if all you want is the technical help, though, as some folks may not want the hard crit of the other elements of their work and/or would rather let the reader decide.
At any rate, try to be clear, get along, and realize that not every suggestion may be employed by the writer.
As for me, I wouldn't mind having a beta. A fresh pair of eyes is always a plus for writers. I do prefer people who aren't my friends if I can find it, because I'll trust the feedback/suggestions better if I feel they're not sugar-coating out of friendship. That and SITS is a long story that's only going to take longer, so a beta for that is going to have to be dedicated to put it mildly :oops: PM me, however, if you're interested.
Volunteering, on the other hand, isn't possible for me at this time. I have way too much going on as it is, and reading/editing is time consuming. Other volunteers should consider that as well, before offering.
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