Beta Bio: general description as a beta reader
I'll do anything from simply reading over a chapter and checking for grammatical errors, to a thorough spelling and grammar check with suggestions for word choice, characterization, description, pacing, plot development, etc. I prefer Word documents sent as email attachments, and I provide written commentary right on the document in red text, for the author to take or leave my suggestions as they see fit. |
My Strengths: beta, writing, or reading strengths
If you have read my work, then you know my skill level - I do not use a beta, so judge for yourself! I've been editing my peers' work since I was nine years old (read: a LONG time), and am very picky about grammar and spelling. I have an Honours degree in English, a Master's degree in English Literature, and in both high school and university I have won numerous scholarships, awards, and prizes in English. I can use proper American, Canadian, or British spelling. |
My Weaknesses: beta, writing, or reading weaknesses
I can sometimes be too picky, and tend to point out every single mistake or discrepancy that catches my eye. Even if something can be considered correct, I often make suggestions on how it can be done differently; this is just due to personal style. It can seem overly harsh or critical to some, but I don't mean it! I am also human, so there's always the chance that something might slip by my notice - the odd typo in my own stories is a testament to this. |
Preferred: types of stories I prefer over others
I prefer to beta something I'd enjoy reading. I like anything with an original plot, or good characterization, and not too much heavy description. I don't mind humour or parody, as long as it's lovingly done. One-shots are fine too. The more faithful the story is to the original work, the better. I'm also willing to beta stories in fandoms I'm not familiar with, so don't hesitate to ask! For C. S. Lewis, I prefer stories based on LWW, HHB, and TSC. I specialize in Tumnus/Lucy friendship, but I am familiar with all of the books and characters. No movie-verse fics, please. For Earthsea, anything based on either "A Wizard of Earthsea" or "The Tombs of Atuan" is fine. For Garth Nix, fanfics inspired by the Old Kingdom series (including Creature in the Case) are fair game. I haven't read Keys to the Kingdom. |
Would Rather Not: I do not beta for these stories
I'm probably not the best beta for poetry, songfics, or romance/smut, as they just do not interest me much, though I will certainly offer opinions if asked. Hurt/comfort makes me gag if that's all there is to the story. Self-insertions, "What if?" scenarios, and non-canon pairings done only because people think "omg they'd look hawt together!" are out. I am a canon purist so I tend not to read AU, although I'll keep an open mind if the story's good. |
