Without non-fiction questions, styled for your beta readers. Everyone in this partnership will be running fast in different directions.

Unlike fiction, where you’re juggling plot twists and character arcs, non-fiction demands precision in facts, clarity in arguments, and a strong link with your audience. 

Asking the right questions can ensure that your beta readers focus on these crucial elements, giving you feedback that’s both meaningful and actionable.

According to research by Nielsen Bookscan, books with a clear and logical structure have a 27% higher reader retention rate. This highlights the importance of well-organized content in keeping readers engaged throughout the book.

To find the right beta readers who can provide this valuable feedback, check out our guide on finding beta readers.

Questions to Ask Your Non-Fiction Beta Readers

Non-fiction is a broad category—from memoirs to self-help guides to technical manuals. Each has its unique demands, but there are some common areas that your list of questions to the beta readers should cover:

For partnerships tailored to fiction manuscripts, visit the fiction questions for beta readers.

Accuracy and Credibility

  • Fact-Checking: Are the facts and data you’ve included spot on? Did anything stand out as questionable or in need of a double-check?
  • Sources: Are your sources reliable and well-chosen? Could the argument be supported with additional references?
  • Expertise: Does the writing reflect a deep understanding of the subject? Does it come across as an authority?

According to a Pew Research study, books that are well-researched and accurately presented are more likely to be trusted by readers. About 39% of readers stated they would abandon a nonfiction book if they found inaccuracies or questionable facts, underscoring the need for meticulous fact-checking during the writing process (Source—Basmo).

Structure and Organization

  • Flow: Is the manuscript well-organized and easy to follow? Does it have a logical progression that makes sense?
  • Chapter Order: Does the sequence of chapters or sections feel right? Are there areas where the order could be improved?
  • Headings and Subheadings: Do the headings and subheadings guide the reader through the content?

75% of U.S. citizens reported reading at least one book last year, regardless of the format. Among them, those who appreciated well-structured content were more likely to complete a book. A clear, logical flow can help retain readers and ensure they understand and engage with the material​ (Source – Thinkimpact).

Clarity and Readability

  • Language: Is the language clear and straightforward? Are there any sections that are too dense or hard to follow?
  • Jargon: Are technical terms explained clearly for your audience? 
  • Length: Are the chapters or sections balanced in length? Do some parts drag on, or are others too brief?

Engagement and Tone

  • Engagement: Did the writing keep the reader’s interest from start to finish? Were there any sections that felt particularly engaging or, conversely, any that felt like a slog?
  • Tone: Is the tone of the writing suitable for the topic and audience? Were there any jarring shifts in tone?
  • Narrative Voice: Does the voice come through clearly? Is it compelling, adding depth to the content?

Argumentation and Persuasion

  • Thesis: Is the main argument or thesis clear and consistent throughout the manuscript?
  • Evidence: Are the arguments backed up by strong evidence? Are there areas where more examples or data could strengthen your case?
  • Counterarguments: Does the manuscript acknowledge and address potential counterarguments? If not, should it?

Relevance and Audience Connection

  • Target Audience: Does the writing speak directly to your intended audience? Were there parts where the content didn’t quite hit the mark?
  • Relevance: Are the topics covered current and relevant? Did anything feel outdated or out of place?
  • Practical Application: Does the manuscript offer actionable insights? Could it use more practical examples to drive home the points?

Visuals and Supplementary Material

  • Visuals: Are the visuals (charts, graphs, images) clear and relevant? Do they help explain the material better?
  • Appendices: Are any appendices or supplementary materials useful and well-organized?
  • Formatting: Is the formatting clean and professional? Were there any formatting issues that interrupted the reading flow?

Overall Impressions

  • Strengths: What are the strongest aspects of the manuscript? What worked really well?
  • Weaknesses: Where does the manuscript need improvement? Were there any sections that felt underdeveloped?
  • Suggestions: Are there any suggestions for revisions or additions that could elevate the manuscript?

Constructive and Honest Feedback

To get the most out of your beta readers, it’s essential to encourage them to be both honest and constructive. Let them know that critical feedback is just as valuable as praise. Emphasize that their input is crucial to the revision process and that you’re open to making changes based on what they say.

It’s also a good idea to remind your beta readers that feedback is subjective. What resonates with one person might not with another, so encourage them to share their personal perspectives while also considering your broader audience.

Customizing the Questions for Your Non-Fiction Manuscript

Just as every non-fiction book is different, so should your question sequence. Tailor it to the specific needs of your manuscript. For instance, if you’re writing a memoir, you might include questions about emotional impact and personal voice. If your work is a technical guide, you might ask about the clarity of instructions and the usability of examples.

By customizing your question, you ensure that your beta readers focus on the aspects of your manuscript that are most critical to its success.

Real-Life Examples of How Feedback Can Transform Non-Fiction

Malcolm Gladwell’s Outliers

Malcolm Gladwell’s Outliers didn’t start as the influential book it is today. Initially, it focused mainly on individual success stories. Early feedback revealed that the manuscript lacked depth and context. Gladwell took this feedback seriously, broadening the scope to include factors like culture and timing, leading to concepts such as the “10,000-Hour Rule.” This feedback-driven shift transformed Outliers into a bestseller, demonstrating the value of constructive criticism.

Tim Ferriss’s The 4-Hour Workweek

Tim Ferriss’s The 4-Hour Workweek also benefited significantly from early feedback. The initial drafts were dense and overloaded with information, making it difficult for readers to connect. Feedback highlighted the need for simplification and clarity. Ferriss streamlined the content, added relatable examples, and focused on making the concepts more accessible. This transformation, driven by feedback, helped The 4-Hour Workweek become a bestseller, emphasizing the importance of adapting to reader feedback.

Using Feedback to Strengthen Your Non-Fiction Manuscript

When you get your feedback, take the time to go through it carefully. Look for common themes—areas where multiple readers have pointed out the same strengths or weaknesses. These patterns can guide your revisions and help you prioritize what needs to be changed.

Remember, the goal is to use this feedback to make your manuscript the best it can be. Be open to significant revisions if they’re needed, and don’t hesitate to seek further feedback as you refine your work.

Final Thoughts

Providing non-fiction feedback questions to your beta readers is the most important step in the writing process. It ensures that you receive focused, detailed, and actionable feedback that can help you refine your manuscript into a polished, compelling final product.

Whether you’re writing a memoir, a self-help book, or a technical guide, a well-structured questionnaire can make all the difference. It guides your beta readers through the critical elements of your manuscript, helping you to gain the insights you need to elevate your work. Take the time to craft questions that’s tailored to your manuscript, and watch as your non-fiction book becomes stronger and more impactful with each round of feedback.

Why did the non-fiction writer take up gardening?

Because they needed to weed out all the unnecessary feedback!