Four Things You Should Know Before Posting Fanfiction

Fans read and write fanfiction because a two-hour movie, twenty-two episode television season, or a single novel just isn’t enough. Fanfiction gives them more of their favorite fandom (whether it’s a movie, TV show, or book) to enjoy. But, while fanfiction is written and read purely for fun, there are still rules. Well, more like guidelines. And those fanfiction writers who follow these guidelines are much appreciated by those who read their fanfiction. There are four things you should know about before posting your fanfiction. 

Get a Beta Reader

A beta reader isn’t necessary, especially if you’re confident about your writing skills, and you think you know the fandom you’re writing in pretty well. However, some fanfiction writers never post a story without running it past at least one beta reader.

A beta reader is like an editor. These are fellow fans who agree to read your fanfiction, checking for spelling mistakes and grammar errors. They will tell you if the dialog in one chapter is weak, the plot is too confusing to follow, or the action scenes aren’t strong enough.

You can find betas who have special knowledge in different areas, like the law, medicine, history, etc. That way, if you’ve written a scene that takes place in an ER, for example, a beta reader who has worked in an ER can tell you whether your scene is accurate. If not, they will tell you how to fix it.

A beta reader will also make sure fandom-specific details in your fanfiction are accurate. They’ll catch it if you’ve given a character the wrong eye color, alma mater, or favorite food.

The best part about beta readers is that the only thing they ask for in return for their hard work is a thank you. And beta readers aren’t hard to find. Go to a message board, mailing list or blog devoted to your favorite fandom. Either someone will volunteer to beta read your fanfiction, or they’ll point you in the right direction.

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