Beta Bio: general description as a beta reader
Note: I'm writing this profile based on what I've seen from others' profiles. (That is, showing how I stand out from and how I compare to other betas.)My job is not to write the story, but to be your editor, and I will respect that space. If you want ideas, I can easily come up with some and give them to you, but otherwise, I won't overstep those creative boundaries. On a similar train of thought, I strongly believe in the growth of knowledge and creativity, which is why I will line edit (correct grammar and spelling), let you know if I see a recurring error so that you'll know about it in the future, and help you work through larger issues you may come across in your writing (cohesion of ideas, characterization, plot, dialogue, etc.). Because of my limited time with school, extracurriculars, managing a magazine staff, and attempting to be an adult, I am going to ask to see your work before I decisively say whether or not I can beta for you. This is because I've previously said yes to beta-ing works that needed a lot more time and effort from my end than I was reasonably able to put in. |
My Strengths: beta, writing, or reading strengths
"Honesty is not boasting," says ffnet. Alright. I got a perfect score on the English portion of the ACT (primarily grammar). I graduated high shool with an IB diploma (HL Literature) and my major is writing-intensive. I.e., I am well-versed in writing and its mechanics. Additionally, this past summer I worked with the head writer at my internship on three social media campaigns and several other writing-focused tasks.On a less school-based note: I've been writing and reading fanfic since 2011. I know where the pitfalls in plot and character that are typically found in the genre, and I'm sure I'll be able to pick it out in your writing. I have some issues with characterization and dialogue when I write my fics (many of which are not posted on this site, btw) and I know how to rework them and mold them until they come out right. Believe me, I know the frustration when what you're typing just doesn't quite come out right. That is to say, I can relate and I know how to help. (Jeez, this is set out to be a pretty long profile, isn't it? Hope you'll stick with me!) If English isn't your first language, I can absolutely help you navigate the language when need be! If your native language is French or you're fluent in it, then I can be pretty helpful because I'll know where you're coming from grammatically and if you need a specific word, I'll be able to give you an English one if you give me a description for it in French. (That is not to say I'm fluent in French; I just have 6 years' experience.) |
My Weaknesses: beta, writing, or reading weaknesses
I suppose I covered one of my weaknesses up above; at least in my own writing, it takes me a while to figure out a character and get the dialogue done right in relation to the characters and the surrounding text. But that exact weakness allows me to find similar awkwardnesses in others' writing and will allow me to help you correct the issue in your own work.I may also take a while to get the work done, only because it may be difficult for me to find a generous enough slot of time to do the work, but I do try to respond as quick as I can. |
Preferred: types of stories I prefer over others
As I mentioned before, I am pretty chill. Your fic a one-shot? Sweet! Mutichap? Guess I'm in for the long-run! Angst or fluff or both? I'm down! Swearing or M/E/lemon/lime/smut/whatever else you wanna call it not your thing? I respect that. If it is, I'll do it! I'll do gen, f/m, m/m, f/f, poly. Trans character? Disabled character? Cool! [NOTE: While I would never demean you or your writing for your orientation, gender, abilities, or political and social views or those of your characters (nor will I force my views upon you), I will NOT stand for racism, sexism, ableism, bigotry, or other forms of discrimination and will stop beta-ing if I believe you have discriminatory intent.]As it is, I suppose my only preference in fic is that it's in a fandom I know. The list I've included is not all-inclusive. I'll do most Marvel (comics/film/tv), a lot of DC (DCEU/DCAU/Batfam/Superman and more as I expand my exposure), many books, many TV shows, and a variety of movies. |
Would Rather Not: I do not beta for these stories
I don't really know any games or musicals, so those are fandoms I won't typically beta for. I also don't do works about real people (actors, singers, etc.) — I feel like it's an invasion of privacy.I will not beta for a fic that includes Bruce/any of the Batkids, Wincest, Drarry, Voldemort/anyone, Loki/any of the Avengers, or a couple of other relationships. [Just ask!] I'm a huge Damijon shipper, but only aged up. Sorry guys, but I really just don't think it's appropriate to be shipping a 13yo and a 10yo. I'm not gonna do anything that's more than innocent crushes or pecked kisses (as in irl) for kids. On that same path: pedophilia is a NO! Unless your story incorporates it in a way that screams, "THIS IS WRONG!" I will not beta it. Please keep in mind that I do not intend to come off stuck-up or strict. Honestly, I'm here to help you out, and if you have any questions, please just send me a message. If you're wondering whether or not your fic is something I'd beta, that means it probably is. Based on my "preferred" and "not my cup of tea" sections, I think you'd know for certain if I wouldn't beta for you. :) Cheers! - TWBG / thesmysciras (Tumblr) |
