In my corner of the universe (however small it may be) it seems that most people seem to find their betas on their flist.
That does make everything much easier, I think. It's only in the last few months that I've had an flist big/talented enough to even try that, however. Most of my experiences with betas (as a writer) have been trying to find one at random - like posting a request on beta_search, or on fic comms, which is how most of the problems I listed cropped up. The same problems happen with writers who are just starting and don't have the contacts or the pull to recruit more seasoned writers to help them out.
I worked at the WC for three semesters (might go back soon; we'll see). Reading aloud was one of the best tricks I learned.
it would probably be more important that the submission matches the assignment, so I tend to use that as a benchmark regarding priorities in beta-reading
That's really interesting. Outside a fic, I wonder how the same mindset would apply (i.e., if not working toward a specific prompt). A writer might spell out the overall vision of the fic, and the beta remark on how successful the story was, what they would do to fit that vision more successfully ... hmm, something to think about.
Re: My two cents. Spend them wisely.
That does make everything much easier, I think. It's only in the last few months that I've had an flist big/talented enough to even try that, however. Most of my experiences with betas (as a writer) have been trying to find one at random - like posting a request on
I worked at the WC for three semesters (might go back soon; we'll see). Reading aloud was one of the best tricks I learned.
it would probably be more important that the submission matches the assignment, so I tend to use that as a benchmark regarding priorities in beta-reading
That's really interesting. Outside a fic, I wonder how the same mindset would apply (i.e., if not working toward a specific prompt). A writer might spell out the overall vision of the fic, and the beta remark on how successful the story was, what they would do to fit that vision more successfully ... hmm, something to think about.