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Beta Readers vs. ARC Readers: Key Differences to Know
There are several pre-publication steps authors take before making their books available for sale. A few of those steps involve early readers, such as ARC (advanced reader copy) and beta readers. These early readers play important roles in helping books succeed, but their roles vary drastically. And they are used at different points in the pre-publication process. So, you’ll want to understand which type of reader you need — and when — before sending your manuscript to anyone.
When it comes to beta readers vs. ARC readers, here’s what you should know.
Beta readers vs. ARC readers
Both beta readers and ARC readers provide feedback, but there are significant differences between the depth of feedback and its purpose. Feedback from beta readers is used to help authors better their story and is typically provided before professional editing.
On the other hand, Feedback from ARC readers is given soon before publication — after professional editing — and can give books and early advantage.
Both types of feedback can result in more sales, which creates the potential for bigger profits for the author.
What is a beta reader
A beta reader usually reads a completed manuscript, ideally one you have self edited several times. They provide feedback regarding their overall thoughts of your story. Did they like it? Did they hate it? And why? They might also point out inconsistencies, plot holes, areas where they started losing interest, etc. Authors often submit specific questions for beta readers to answer, too.
Beta readers act as an early test audience, which is why it’s so important to use readers who regularly read and enjoy your genre. If your beta readers found areas of your book problematic or unclear, their feedback allows you to correct the issues before your story is published.
What does a beta reader do?
Not every author knows what beta readers do. Sometimes, even readers don’t fully understand the role of a beta reader. Although authors and readers can negotiate other terms, here is what beta readers generally do:
- Beta readers provide feedback regarding their overall feelings of the story
- Good beta readers explain why they liked or disliked certain aspects of your book
- Beta readers typically answer questions provided by the author
And here is what beta readers generally don’t do:
- Beta readers don’t proofread or edit
- Beta readers do not write public reviews
- Most beta readers do not act engage in brainstorming sessions
- While beta readers offer varying depths of feedback, a beta reader does not offer an editorial-level analysis (also known as an editorial assessment or manuscript evaluation)
What are ARC readers?
ARC readers provide feedback, but it is for the general public (more on that later). At this stage, you should have already perfected your book’s content (with the help of beta readers and possibly a developmental editor). Your book should have been line and copy edited before sending it to ARC readers. It should be formatted and have gone through proofreading.
An ARC copy is very close to the final book. Sometimes, authors will order physical proof copies for ARC readers. Other times, ARC readers use a digital copy.
Differences between ARC and beta readers
Now that you have a better understanding of what ARC and beta readers are, we’ll take a deeper dive into their differences.
Beta readers vs. ARC readers: Which come first?
Beta readers come before ARC readers. You should seek out beta readers after your manuscript is written and you’ve done some self editing. Beta reading should come before developmental editing.
ARC readers come when your book is nearly finished. However, make sure you enlist ARC readers early enough to allow them time to read your book before the release date. The sooner reviews are posted, the better.
Beta readers provide feedback
As stated earlier, beta readers provide feedback for you. It is meant to help you improve your story before it’s sent to editors or released for public consumption.
ARC readers leave book reviews
Your ARC readers will read your book and be ready to post a public review as soon as it’s published. This gives your book a head start, because, as many authors will tell you, reviews aren’t always easy to get.
ARC reader vs. beta reader: FAQs
If you’re having trouble deciding whether or need you need beta or ARC readers, these FAQs might help.
Are beta readers worth it?
Good beta readers are worth having. However, not all beta readers follow through, and some provide better feedback than others. Finding beta readers who will meet your expectations might take some time, but once you’ve found them, you’ll probably be glad you did.
Are ARC readers worth it?
ARC readers are valuable, but you want to ensure reviews are honest. So, for the best results, choose readers who you think will love your book.
What about paid reviews?
Some authors opt to pay for public book reviews. However, paid reviews aren’t always allowed. For example, Amazon doesn’t permit paid book reviews (with few exceptions). Trading positive reviews with another author isn’t allowed, either. It’s important to do your research if you want to ensure you and your reviewers aren’t violating any rules.
How do you find ARC and beta readers?
It’s important to find beta and ARC readers who are honest, reliable, and regularly enjoy your genre. So, you should do your research before trusting anyone with your manuscript. Here are a few places you can look:
- Facebook ARC, beta reading, reading and writing groups
- Check Reddit for subreddits that apply (ARC readers, beta readers, genre-specific readers and writers, etc.)
- Fiverr (for paid readers)
- Bookabetareader.com (for vetted, paid readers)
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