Question 1

How do I know if my book is ready for alpha or beta reading?

Accepted Answer

You’ve finished writing your story and you feel that it is ready to be edited. Perhaps you have taken your manuscript to a workshop to get some feedback and would like some more specialized reviews of your text by a published writer or professional.

Question 2

What is the difference between alpha and beta reading?

Accepted Answer

Alpha Reading
If you have a completed first draft, congratulations! You are ready for an alpha read. Also referred to as “first readers,” alpha readers provide an initial edit that can be done once you complete your manuscript, regardless of whether or not it has been critiqued by others. Alpha readers will typically provide general feedback and notes on any significant changes that need to be made. This includes pointing out obvious plot holes, character inconsistences, and impressions of the overall style. Having your book alpha read in its earlier stages is helpful, as it helps you weed out anything that doesn’t work, saving you time in the long run.

Beta Reading
Once you’ve had your manuscript edited through at least 1-2 drafts, you might consider beta reading. Ideally, you will have edited your manuscript by a professional editor or alpha reader at this point. Don’t worry—thorough self-editing counts as well! If you’ve gone through your manuscript with a fine-toothed comb, including story development, proofreading, copyediting, etc., and you are ready for another set of eyes, beta reading will help you get that one step closer to publishing. Beta readers provide specialized feedback on different aspects of your story, like those in the alpha reading phase, but with greater detail. In addition, beta readers can provide you with notes for specific areas of the text that you would like feedback on.

Question 3

What are the benefits of alpha and beta reading?

Accepted Answer

Editors can take a huge chunk out of your publishing budget, especially as a first-time author. Alpha and beta readers help you share your voice with the world without the costs of a conventional editing process. At Escolástica Press, all our alpha and beta readers are published writers who can provide you with honest feedback. We want to help you save money and start thinking like a bestselling author. One of the best ways to get into a published writer mindset—get feedback from published writers!

Question 4

I can’t afford an alpha or beta reader right now. What options are available to me?

Accepted Answer

If you are a new author who is very passionate about your book, but unable to afford our reading rates, please contact us below. We will work out a different fee for you.

Question 5

Do you offer payment plans?

Accepted Answer

We do! Please contact us to find out more.

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