Beta Bio: general description as a beta reader
I generally would look to make sure things are spelt correctly, and most basic grammar rules are followed. I won't claim to be perfect at this, but I can generally find when something's 'wrong'. If I have a very good background on what I'm reading (or in the case of crossovers, good background on both categories), then I can point out plot discrepancies and such, but I can also respect an author's wish to keep the 'element of surprise', as it may be. That being said, while I won't ask or expect any author to completely conform to whatever corrections/suggestions I make, I do ask that they keep an open mind, and not just completely write anything off as unnecessary. You'd be asking me my opinion, after all. Unfortunately, I also can come off kinda harsh, if I'm in a major correction mode. I'm not trying to put people down with my comments, even if it sounds that way sometimes. I'll apologize now in advance, and probably later as well. Last comment; the categories in my preferences are mainly sections that I know a good deal about and will read when the feeling strikes me. I do accept other categories, but mainly only if it is a crossover with one of the bigger ones like Harry Potter or Naruto, because I know enough about those kinds, maybe Negima (original Manga/Anime), cause I've read most/all of those. Basically, if you take a look at my favorites list and have it sorted by category, you'll get a better picture. |
My Strengths: beta, writing, or reading strengths
I can be rather picky on certain rules in grammar and spelling (uses of their, there, they're, too, to, two, accept, except, etc), as well as some punctuation. I usually like to stick with what I know to be 'true' canon, then incorporating 'author canon' as it shows up. Until I can begin to balance things out, though, I may give an author a somewhat hard time, maybe pressing for details and such they never really thought out or planned. Personally, I think this makes stories/worlds more believable and whole, but It may be annoying to authors. I also generally do better with shorter words-per-chapter, but that depends on interest. |
My Weaknesses: beta, writing, or reading weaknesses
Hmm...I've covered most of this in the previous two sections, but lets recap. I can come off a little too strong, and can't always word my thoughts well to fit my meanings. This may give the impression that I belittle or insult an author because of some point of another. I don't likely mean it that way, honest. Also, the only real language I know is English, with a very broken and basic knowledge of Spanish, French, and Japanese (not even enough for a full conversation. Basically just some simple, common words you'd learn in any first year introduction class. Most of the Japanese comes from Naruto stories). I can't really think of anything else right now...may add more later. |
Preferred: types of stories I prefer over others
My interests vary greatly. More often that not, my interests are dependent on my mood and an authors own skill at writing. If I'm really in the mood for some obscure type of story, I'd beta it even if I thought the author was doing a rather poor job of writing. On the opposite hand, if I really like the premise of a story, I'd beta it even if the type doesn't usually interest me. Its a case-by-case basis, thing. |
Would Rather Not: I do not beta for these stories
...Again, case-by-case basis. I will say this, though; I don't do slash/yaoi/male-on-male/whatever. I personally have nothing against these authors, nor their fans, but I just can't really do it. The only exceptions to that is if my interest in the story's plot is exceptionally high, I've gotten really into it before even realizing it was going to be that way, or one of the males is for some reason female in part/most of the relationship (i.e. Naruto is using his Sexy Jutsu, or gender!bender (even if I don't exactly consider those male!male, but, yeah) or similar). Also, call me a hypocrite or a 'typical male' or whatever, but I don't really have a problem with yuri/femslash, just yaoi/slash. I think that may be the only thing I don't read right off the bat no matter what. I understand it has quite the following and all, but...yeah, just not me. |
