So, you’ve sent your manuscript off to a beta reader—exciting! But now you’re wondering, What kind of feedback am I actually going to get? A good beta reader report is an invaluable tool in the revision process, giving you insight into what’s working in your story and what might need another round of polish. Let’s break down what you can expect.

Every writer wants their book to be the best it can be before sending it into the world, whether that’s through self-publishing, querying agents, or submitting to publishers. Two crucial steps in this process are beta reading and editing—but while they may seem similar, they serve distinct purposes. Understanding the differences between them can help you make the most of both.