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Language:
English
Stats:
Published:
2021-03-30
Completed:
2021-03-30
Words:
7,166
Chapters:
9/9
Comments:
153
Kudos:
1,197
Bookmarks:
500
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Guide to Beta Reading (for Authors and Beta Readers)

Chapter 9: Text-Only Beta Reader Checklist

Summary:

A text-only version of the fancy beta reader checklist. Adjust to suit your needs.

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Beta Reader Checklist

(Adapted from a checklist created by AO3 Comment of the Day.)

Development:

  • brainstorming
  • plotting
  • research

Grammar:

  • tenses
  • spelling
  • punctuation
  • pronouns
  • subject/verb agreement
  • paragraphing

Writing:

  • tone
  • flow
  • pacing
  • continuity
  • plot holes
  • structure/plot
  • clarity/removing ambiguity
  • awkward metaphors/phrasing
  • overuse of certain words/phrases

Sensitivity:

  • racism
  • sexism
  • homophobia
  • transphobia
  • ableism
  • religious intolerance
  • potential squicks/triggering content

Canon:

  • characterization
  • timeline
  • references

Other:

  • first impressions/reactions
  • positive feedback
  • language (e.g. US/British English)
  • formatting
  • smart quotes vs. straight quotes

AO3:

  • fic title
  • chapter titles
  • summary
  • tagging

Notes:

This list can be found on tumblr here.