You’d think the hard part is over once you finish your first draft—but honestly, that’s when the real work begins. The post-draft phase is where many writers face their first big decision: Do I need beta readers… or an editor? It’s a common question, and one that tends to leave writers feeling a little lost.

If you’re in that boat, don’t worry, you’re not alone. And the good news? The answer is actually simpler than it seems. Let’s break it down together.

Beta Readers vs. Editors: What’s the Difference?

Let’s start with understanding the difference between beta readers and editors, because knowing who does what will help you make smarter, more confident decisions as you move through the editing process.

Beta Readers: Your First Audience

Beta readers are the friendly folks who read your manuscript like a reader, not an editor. Think of them as your story’s test audience. They aren’t looking to nitpick your grammar or sentence structure; they’re telling you whether your story works.

Beta readers can spot:

• Plot holes or inconsistencies
• Confusing or slow-paced sections
• Characters who feel flat or unrelatable
• Moments that make them laugh, cry, or roll their eyes

They often come from your target audience and should ideally love your genre. They may not charge for their time, but their insights are incredibly valuable. Choose wisely; a friend who sugarcoats everything might not help your book grow.

Editors: The Professionals Who Polish

Now, once you’ve had that first wave of feedback and done some revising, it’s time to think about editors. Editors are the real MVPs when it comes to turning a good draft into a great book. Unlike beta readers, editors are trained professionals who know the mechanics and nuances of storytelling.

There are different types of editors, including:

• Developmental Editors who help with big-picture stuff: structure, pacing, plot arcs.
• Line Editors who focus on flow, clarity, and style, sentence by sentence.
• Copy Editors who fix grammar, punctuation, and consistency issues.

A good editor will help tune your story into the version you’ve been visualising in your head but haven’t quite been able to translate onto the page. They bring clarity, structure, and polish, without taking away what makes your voice unique. 

When to Use Which: A Timeline for Your Manuscript

So how do you decide when to bring in beta readers or editors? Don’t worry, here’s a simple timeline to help you figure that out. 

Step 1: Finished Your Draft? Bring In Beta Readers

Once you’ve written your draft and done a self-edit or two, it’s time to hand it off to beta readers. They’ll give you the kind of feedback only a reader can: does the story grab them? Do they relate to your characters? Are they compelled to keep turning pages?

To make their feedback useful:

• Give them 5–7 guiding questions (e.g., “Was the ending satisfying?” “Did any part feel too slow?”).
• Ask for honesty, not flattery.
• Choose readers who understand your genre or are part of your ideal audience.

Step 2: Revised Based on Feedback? It’s Editor Time

After incorporating beta feedback, you’re ready for the professional touch. This is where you invest in editing. Depending on your needs and budget, you might hire just one type of editor or go through all three stages (developmental, line, and copy).

Editors will:

• Spot structural issues that escaped beta readers
• Polish your writing for clarity, style, and grammar
• Help you get your manuscript submission- or publication-ready

Remember: an editor isn’t there to rewrite your book. They enhance what’s already there; they help you become a better writer.

Can You Skip One? It Depends…

At this point, you might wonder: can you skip beta readers or editors entirely? The answer depends on your path.

In some cases, you can skip beta readers, especially if you’re part of a critique group or workshop that already provides similar feedback. Likewise, if you’re traditionally publishing, some authors rely more heavily on the editing their agent or publisher provides.

However, for indie authors or anyone self-publishing, using both beta readers and editors is strongly recommended. One gives you a reader’s perspective, the other gives you professional polish. They serve different (but equally important) roles.

Finding the Right Support Team

Now that you know who does what and when to bring them in, let’s talk about how to actually find these wonderful people.

How to Find Beta Readers

When looking for beta readers, aim for people who genuinely enjoy the kind of story you’re telling. Genre matters; someone who loves sci-fi thrillers might not be the best fit for your cozy fantasy. It’s also smart to avoid overly close friends and family, unless they have a talent for giving brutally honest feedback without flinching. 

Online writing communities can be goldmines; try places like Discord servers, Reddit threads, Facebook groups, or platforms like Scribophile. And once you’ve got someone on board, be clear about what you need from them (specific questions help!), and always, always thank them for their time.

How to Find an Editor

Finding an editor isn’t just about Googling and picking the first name that pops up. It starts with clarity, on your needs, your genre, and your voice. Are you looking for someone to help shape the story’s structure, smooth out your sentences, or catch pesky grammar errors? Maybe all three? Once you know that, start searching with intention.

Look for editors who have experience in your genre. Most importantly, remember: a great editor isn’t necessarily the cheapest one; they’re the ones who “get” your voice and help it shine.

Still Wondering If You Really Need an Editor or Beta Reader?

If you’re feeling unsure, you’re not the only one. So many new authors wonder if their draft is “ready enough” or if getting help this early makes sense. But the truth is, no great book makes it out into the world without feedback and polish. And you don’t have to figure it all out alone.

That’s exactly where Once Upon A Manuscript comes in, to offer new and emerging writers the kind of support they need when starting out. Whether you need help tightening your prose or refining your story, I’m here to help.

Your story deserves to be told well; you don’t have to do it alone. 

Let’s bring your words to life, together.