Beta Bio: general description as a beta reader
All I am is just someone who loves to read, really. I'm a bit of a Grammar Nazi, and I'd love the chance to help people out in that field, since I've seen many works that have great potential, but are bogged down by horrible grammar and spelling. This is a major pet peeve of mine, and it has ruined great stories for me, so I'd like to be able to help some writers out with that. Not to mention, sometimes you just need a second opinion, which I'm more than happy to offer.My style is literally just me reading the submission repeatedly, fixing any and all errors until it's cleared of grammatical errors. Afterward, I will ponder whether or not it A: makes sense on its own, B: makes sense in canon, and C: fits the tone of the rest of the work. My expectations are really only to be patient regarding my feedback, and to be able to take criticism, as well as argue if need be, like an adult. If I make a case for why something doesn't fit in your work, you must be mature and civil about it, otherwise you will lose me as a beta. I'm not difficult to get along with, so that shouldn't be a problem. Don't be shy if you want to ask for my services, and I wish you good tidings. |
My Strengths: beta, writing, or reading strengths
My biggest strength is my proofreading skills. I will not hesitate to spend a long time on submissions to make they are perfect grammatically. Also, if you so desire, I can add some flourish to your work by acting like a thesaurus, or rephrasing certain things. However, whether or not I do that rests solely on you.I'm also quite able to distinguish what makes sense in stories. I will actively look to eliminate, or alter moments that don't fit with the story in question. Finally, I will always be as enthusiastic as I possibly can regarding any submissions or back-and-forths I take part in. |
My Weaknesses: beta, writing, or reading weaknesses
I'm a perfectionist, who is generally highly critical, and will pose questions when I see fit. I realize this may be off-putting, so consider this a forewarning. Most of my weaknesses are related to genre types, and how well I grasp them. These will be laid out further down. |
Preferred: types of stories I prefer over others
In terms of genres, I'd rather stick with Romance, Drama, and Humor(the drier, the better), as these are the ones I read the most often, and have the best grasp of. However, there's really nothing I won't at least give a passing glance.When regarding type, I find myself well suited to darker, more intense stories. Like anyone with angst, I find these some of the most invigorating and fun to read. Not that I'm unwilling or unable to beta something more light-hearted; I'm just more well versed in darker material. |
Would Rather Not: I do not beta for these stories
Thematically speaking, you will be hard pressed to find things that immediately turn me away. I only ask that if your work features mature themes and circumstances, you handle them with tact and dignity. Cheap shock tactics are, well, cheap, and I'd rather not be associated with something that tries to pass somebody killing themselves, for example, as nothing huge, or hugely downplays the circumstances surrounding it. Also, if I don't know the fandom, I'll be unable to offer anything more than grammar assistance, so, if I am not familiar with the the fandom, I will tell you, and leave the decision up to you. |
