When the feedback from your beta readers rolls in, don’t be surprised if some of it is difficult to swallow. The adrenaline that kicks in when we invite critique can make it easy to misread a comment or get defensive upon first read. But taking a few days to let those initial reactions dissipate can help us reread the feedback with fresh eyes and assess it objectively.
Regardless of how much you love the story you’ve written, it’s impossible for any reader to read your manuscript without bringing their own experiences and expectations to it. It’s important to be able to distinguish between criticism and the subjective “it doesn’t work for me” kind of feedback.
The goal of a reader’s feedback is to offer suggestions that improve the story and make it more appealing for readers. If you’re grateful for a helpful suggestion, be sure to thank the reader, even if the suggestion doesn’t end up being incorporated into the final article. This fosters a sense of collaboration between writer and reader, and it shows the reader that their opinion matters.
As you analyze the feedback, look for patterns in the responses. A common theme might emerge, indicating a potential area of improvement for your manuscript. For example, if multiple readers note that your character’s motivations are unclear, it’s a good idea to take a closer look at those scenes and make some adjustments. Similarly, if several readers point out that your plot is relying too heavily on coincidence or deus-ex-machina, it may be time to consider some revisions to your story’s structure.
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