Beta Bio: general description as a beta reader
I dedicate most of my attention to the use of language, tone, and imagery of a work. I prefer to work closely with my writers in order to help them develop their piece to the best it can be. I am very nitpicky and offer many many suggestions when editing, the key word here being "suggestions": I don't ask or expect writers to do everything I say, as I wish for them to maintain a strong degree of agency over their work. However, what I do expect is the establishment of an ongoing conversation between author and Beta, so that the work may be discussed and improved gradually. I would like authors to not expect me to simply proof read their work, since that is a very basic thing any word-processing application can do. My authors would have to expect detailed suggestions and commentaries to their work, as well as the establishment of a cooperation between the two of us. I am here to make sure that your message reaches the readers clearly and powerfully, and to do so we will have to work together. Which is why I will ask my authors to agree on a schedule that will suit both of our lives and commitments, if they intend to go on to a multi-chapter work or wish to establish a continued relationship with me as their editor. I always do my research; if you don't see a fandom in my list and you think I might enjoy it, don't hesitate to drop me a line and I will research it for you if (a) I enjoy it, (b) it's not over 50 episodes long. I reserve the right to stop Beta-ing a fanfiction due to other commitments, or to turn down an offer if I do not particularly enjoy the story due to my personal taste. ***IMPORTANT INFORMATION*** I will proofread the first 500-700 words of your work for free, so that you may get a taste of my editing style. However, for the amount of time and work I put into editing on top of my daily life, I will ask to be paid to Beta any more than that. I will discuss rates with you beforehand in order to make them affordable and fair. |
My Strengths: beta, writing, or reading strengths
I have degrees in English Literature, Creative Writing, and Publishing, therefore I am very confident in my ability to evaluate and edit a written piece. My main strengths lie in the use of language and tone, and in my ability to suggest improvements that resonate with the story's long-term plans and motivations. I am particularly keen on consistency and fact-checking, on word choice to create visual and emotional effects, and, most importantly, on characterisation. 80% of writing is re-writing, and I am here to help with that. |
My Weaknesses: beta, writing, or reading weaknesses
I tend to be a very nitpicky and harsh editor at times. I'm not offensive or abusive in any way, of course, but I am one who calls people out for things that don't work in their writing. I write many comments and make many suggested amendments when I edit, and while some may take it as me implying that the work is bad, it is absolutely never intended in that way: I make suggestions and amendments where I think there is potential for improvement and where I know the author can deliver, but it's always the author's final call. I also commend the author when they have particularly good bits. |
Preferred: types of stories I prefer over others
I prefer stories that have an overarching plot. Stories that use symbolism and imagery to convey a message, that have a second layer beneath the superficial one. Stories that talk of people with real emotions, not stereotypes or perfect characters. Right now, I am very much into: Hellsing, Gravity Falls, One Piece, Dream Daddy, D&D/Pathfinder. |
Would Rather Not: I do not beta for these stories
I will NOT Beta PwP (porn without plot), stories that show an utter disregard of English grammar and syntax, smut, sexist work (unless it serves a clear purpose in the story), self-insert stories, Mary Sue/Gary Stu stereotypes, mecha, child pornography, child abuse, incest, ABO (Alpha, Beta, Omega) fanfictions, Crossovers (unless you give me excellent plot, ideas, and characterisation), works that are in any way misogynistic, racist, homophobic, or generally disrespectful towards minorities in nature. |
