Beta Reader Feedback Tracker

Who this is for

Feedback from several readers, sorted into decisions. The main table gathers comments chapter by chapter, so a point raised by three readers stands out from one raised by one; a short table records who read the draft and when it came back.

Novelists and non-fiction authors sending a draft to beta readers, critique partners or a writing group, and anyone who has received more notes than they know what to do with.

What this helps you track

• Who has the draft, when it was sent and when it came back
• Each reader's overall impression in a line
• Every comment by chapter, sorted by type
• How many readers raised the same point
• What you decided to do about each one, and whether it is done

How to use it

1. Write the manuscript, the draft number and the date it went out at the top.
2. List each reader with the date sent, and fill in the returned date and their overall view when their notes come back.
3. Copy each specific comment into the comments table with its chapter, reader and type; where another reader says the same, add to the count rather than a new line.
4. Once everyone is back, decide an action for each comment and tick done as you revise.
5. Fill it online if you prefer; it saves in your own browser.

Formats

• Printable PDF (A4 and US Letter)
• Fillable PDF with form fields
• Fill in online, saved in your browser

The printable is laid out inside a box that fits both A4 and US Letter, so the two files are identical and neither one is scaled. The fillable PDF has real form fields. The online version keeps what you enter in your own browser and builds the completed PDF on your device.

How to print

Download the A4 or US Letter file to match the paper in your printer, open it in a PDF reader and print at 100% — not "fit to page", which shrinks the writing space. Both files leave a 14 mm margin, which clears the unprintable edge on home printers. To print the online version with your entries in it, use the Print this sheet button, which prints only the sheet and none of the page around it. More on printing.

Questions

How many beta readers should I have?

As many as you can gather useful notes from and still read everything they send. The sheet does not suggest a number; the reader table has space for several and more can be added online.

Do I have to act on every comment?

No. The action column is for your decision, including leaving something as it is. A point raised by several readers is worth a closer look; a single comment may be a matter of taste.

What are the comment types for?

They let you see whether feedback clusters around plot, character, pace or clarity. If most comments are one type, that is often the pass to start the next revision with.

Should I send readers questions with the draft?

Many writers do, to focus the notes on what they are unsure of. Write the questions in the notes area and ask every reader the same ones, so the answers can be compared.