Beta Bio: general description as a beta reader
As a beta reader, I'm probably not the best choice for absolute beginners. If you don't have a good grasp on basic writing rules, capitalisation, paragraphs and the spell check function, I'm not inclined to put in the kind of work it would take to turn something like that into a readable story. Start me with something easily legible that just needs a bit of polishing and then I'll be happy to help.
I'll beta fics of any length, time permitting, and of any genre. I like everything from romance to action, G to NC-17 Ratings (not that those are allowed on the site anymore) and if it's gen, slash/femmeslash or het I won't turn it away on principal. I do not like the kinds of fics that condone pointless character bashing or Mary-Sue type characters, but I'll tell you point blank if I find something like that in your writing. Sometimes it's not always obvious.
I believe firmly in constructive criticism. I won't constantly haze you but I will point out what I think are flaws and if you're too defensive of your work and can't take the idea that it might need a little improving...what the heck are you getting a beta for anyway? Of course you're welcome to get a second opinion after me if you don't agree with my explanations. What one person doesn't like another person might; even betas aren't unbiased sources and I understand that. |
My Strengths: beta, writing, or reading strengths
My strong points are with characterisation and plot. Characterisation is fluid, and can have plenty of different interpretations, but I consider myself to be a decent judge of what reasonable character actions are and what's not. Likewise, if you have a questionable plot device in the works, I can help minimise the unbelievability factor, or help you find a new explanation altogether.
I like to think I can wield Earth-logic with the best of them, but be loose enough with it to still have fun. I like realism but I try not to make it boring. |
My Weaknesses: beta, writing, or reading weaknesses
Probably not the best quality for a beta reader, but I'll admit that I'm no english major. The placement of apostrophies has been known to bamboozle me, and advanced grammar rules go right over my head. If your writing needs a lot of technical improvement, I'm not the best beta to come to.
Also, I'm not sure if this should be considered a strength or a flaw, but I'm very stern with the characterisation of Original Characters, mostly because I've seen too many likable OCs turn into terrible Mary Sues. If you have them in your story, expect them to come under harsh scrutiny. |
Preferred: types of entries I prefer over others
I'll admit, my attention can be easily bought if you're writing for any of my favoured fandoms or pairings, but that could probably be said by anyone. |
Would Rather Not: types of entries I do not want to beta for
Stories featuring predominiantly original characters. These are rarely done well, and too many people are defensive of their OCs to make beta-ing a pleasent job. |
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