When I looked up “creative writing misconceptions” to prepare to write this blog, I saw a lot of the same responses: “Writing is easy for good writers,” “All writers are introverts,” “There’s one correct way to write,” and on and on. 

But if you’ve been writing for any amount of time, you likely already know these statements aren’t true—so why rehash them?

Instead, I want to delve into the misconceptions that may directly impact your writing and publishing processes: the writerly whoopsies that repel readers, the “my bad”s that cause publications to toss your submissions. Let’s set the record straight to give you the confidence to succeed. 

1. Alpha readers vs. beta readers

You’ve probably heard the terms “beta reader” and “alpha reader” thrown around in the writing community. Since they both involve reading manuscripts, many writers conflate the two roles, which can create confusion when it’s time to ask for their help. 

Contrary to other uses of these words, there’s no hierarchy between alpha and beta readers. They both read a writer’s manuscript and offer impressions—they simply read at different stages of the writing and revision process. Let’s take a closer look:

• Beta reader – After rounds and rounds of drafts, revisions, and edits, your manuscript is finally done—time for the beta readers to shine. They read complete, polished manuscripts, offering writers their full impressions of the work: what resonated, what felt confusing, and who they believe the target audience is. They can even suggest strategies to market a manuscript to agents and publishers. Writers typically request the help of beta readers before querying their work for this reason. 

• Alpha reader – In contrast, an alpha reader typically offers feedback on messier, often unfinished rough drafts. They take a more active role in the revision process, suggesting ways to improve high-level story elements like character development, plot, setting, pace, and more.

Understanding the difference between alpha readers and beta readers becomes particularly important when you ask others to read your work. If you ask a peer to beta read your manuscript and send them an incomplete first draft, they won’t be too happy. Before connecting with potential readers, make sure you know which type you need.

Learn how to use beta help from Lisa Fox and Andrea Goyan at our conference!

2. POV vs. perspective

I wrote a whole blog post on this exact topic back in March 2024. Since the differences between point of view and perspective are complex and often confusing, it’s probably time for a refresher. 

Both POV and perspective relate to a story’s narrator. Here’s how they diverge:

• Point of view – A story’s POV describes the mode of storytelling: first person, second person, and/or third person (or fourth person, if you’re super POV savvy). It’s a purely technical term that tells you who is narrating the story—a central character, omniscient narrator, or someone (or something) in-between—and how. The POV(s) you choose will impact how the reader consumes and interacts with your story. 

• Perspective – A story’s perspective is more nuanced than its POV. It’s defined as the narrator’s understanding and portrayal of the story’s events. A narrator’s role in the story, their character traits, and more all shape their perspective, much like your upbringing and personal experiences shape your own perspectives on life. Understanding perspective is essential for your story’s character development, tone, and overall message.

While two different concepts, POV and perspective influence each other in many ways. For example, different POVs can give you new perspectives on your story. And your intended perspective can inform the POV(s) you choose to write in. Understanding the differences between the two will give you more control over how they interact. 

3. Submission guidelines

Would you look at that? I wrote a blog post about submission calls last year, too! If you missed it, here’s a quick recap of the most common mix-ups writers make:

• Lit mags, presses, anthologies, oh my! – When submitting, the first thing you need to know is who you’re submitting to. Writers new to submitting may mistakenly send a 200 line epic poem to a flash fiction journal because they didn’t check what they will accept. Always do your research on the publication or press before submitting work to avoid tossed submissions.

• Multiple vs. simultaneous submissions – While it’s crucial you follow submission guidelines, no one said they can’t be confusing. One common stumper is the distinction between multiple and simultaneous submissions. When a publication accepts multiple submissions, it means they allow you to send multiple stories (or poems) during the same submission period (while adhering to all submission guidelines, of course). If they accept simultaneous submissions, it means you can submit the same piece to other publications. If that piece is accepted elsewhere, remember to update the other publications and withdraw the piece from consideration. 

• Themes – Many literary magazines and writing contests select themes that submissions must adhere to. Many writers believe these themes are suggestions, or that they can fulfill the theme by shoehorning the word in a throwaway piece of dialogue. Wrong! If a publication requires a theme, be sure that your piece embodies that theme to the best of your ability. 

• Deadlines – A publication’s deadlines can also raise questions for writers. Some publications accept rolling submissions, others have periodic submission windows, and others have single open and close dates. Read the guidelines closely to ensure you submit before the deadline. 

If you take nothing else from this blog, remember that submission guidelines are the one thing you don’t want to misunderstand. Clearing up these misconceptions now will help you submit more and better your chances of getting published!

I covered these topics and others in our 2024 blog series, Understanding Your Writing. We’ve now collected them all in one place for your learning convenience: Check them out here!

Still looking for answers to the writing questions that keep you up at night? Join us March 17th-23rd for our 2025 Writer’s Workout Conference! We have a massive line-up of free, virtual presentations from leading authors, editors, and other publishing industry professionals. Gain deep insight into the many aspects of a writing career, and develop the skills you need to hone your craft. 

Browse the list of presenters and their topics now and keep an eye out for the full schedule coming this month. See you there!

About the author:

Lindsey is almost always writing, whether it’s a short story, copywriting project, Writer’s Workout blog post, or carefully crafted Instagram comment. With the spare time she digs out of the couch cushions, she’s usually crocheting, adventuring with her friends, or thinking about how she should be reading more. She splits her time between Upstate New York, where she grew up, and Boston, where she'll continue to grow.