AUCTION SPOTLIGHT: BETA READERS

marveltrumpshate:

Is there a fic idea that you’d just love to write, but you’re not sure if you’re up to it?

Do you write a ridiculous amount of fics each month and find it hard to keep track of your typos?

Have you signed up to some holiday exchanges and want to have a beta handy?

Do
you have a masterpiece that’s been sitting on your hard drive for the
last however many years, just waiting for a brush-up so it can be
published?

If any of these apply, then what you want is a beta reader!

Marvel Trumps Hate has 31 brilliant auctions for beta services,
with some people not even mentioning an upper word-count limit for the
length of fic they’re willing to read. All auctions are currently
sitting at extremely reasonable prices (most are less than $10); it’s a
great bargain when you think of all the benefits you’ll get!

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But what is a beta reader?

Beta
readers are people who check through a writer’s story before they post
it publicly. They can have different specialties and may be able to help
you with various things such as:
•    SPaG (spelling, punctuation, and grammar)
•    Syntax and sentence flow
•    Plot cohesiveness and structure
•    Canon compliance
•    Characterization and dialogue
•    Scientific or historical accuracy
•    Knowledge that helps with specific AUs, like the way gangs operate, how motorcycles work, etc.

Betas
may also offer thoughts, questions, encouragement, and personal
opinions on a fic as they read; in effect, they’re your test audience. A
different perspective can help you figure out what needs improvement as
well as the things that stand out in your writing. If you enjoy working
together, then perhaps you’ll find yourself with a new fandom friend as
well as a longer-term beta reading arrangement!

Sound intriguing?
Then off you go; look through the auctions. Maybe this is the place
where you finally find your beta for those 5 or 50K of fledgling fic!