[DrowessQueen]

What does beta mean? I've never really used the term, so....yeah...

[Eyborg]

"Beta" is basically a proof reader. Someone who you have read your fic, find possible spelling & grammatical errors, and also give good advice regarding the fic in general (plot, characterization etc.) Especially good for non-native-English-speakers like me...

[DrowessQueen]

Ohh...I feel less ignorant now

[NancyBrooke]

Just to elaborate a bit ...

Yeah, a beta is a second reader, from the second letter of the Greek alphabet and like the term "Beta-release" for software etc.

Most Betas at least will read for grammar and spelling etc.; it's always advisable to get a second pair of eyes to look over something before posting (even this e-mail ). But sometimes writers and betas develop really close relationships which border on collaboration, the beta steering story direction, character development etc. just from the perspective of the non-writer reader or for canon issues. Just depends on what you as a writer need and what your beta is willing/capable to supply.

If you think you need a beta (and if you're going to post a story I would like to say that you do need one) you can advertise in this section of the forum, or look around: a number of folks have posted offering their beta services.

Good luck!