by Christa Joyce

Created on: January 20, 2007   Last Updated: May 14, 2007

Writing a good synopsis...

There are possibly more words written about the synopsis than any other aspect of the submission package. So what really does make a good synopsis, and more importantly how to write one?

What is a synopsis and why is one necessary?
The sole purpose of a synopsis is to sell a book to an agent or publisher. From a well written synopsis, an agent can tell if the author a) has a saleable story to tell and b) whether they possess the ability to tell that story in a marketable way.

What makes a well written synopsis?

Linda Needham, award winning romance author writes "The secret to a good synopsis is a compelling, emotionally and motivationally rich story. The secret to a compelling, emotionally and motivationally rich story is planning."

Literary Agents themselves agree that; apart from one or two personal preferences (which can usually be found on agency websites under submission guidelines), there are a few standard rules for synopsis writing.

Firstly the synopsis should never be confused with the back cover blurb; blurbs are the province of copywriters. As a rule of thumb the synopsis should be 1 page for every 100 pages of manuscript and should be written in the present tense and from the third person omnipresent point of view, using strong verbs and adjectives. Every word must count. The synopsis should be typed or printed on one side only in plain size 12 font with adequate margins all round.

Step 1) Begin with a hook a sentence or two that reveals what is at stake, sets the tone for what is to follow, and gets the reader interested.

Step 2) Introduce the Main Characters, concentrating on their motivations, conflicts and goals. Steer clear of unnecessary detailed description and deal only with the major players.

Step 3) The main body here is where the story is told in the order in which it happens in the book. In paragraphs, the pivotal points of the story (the conflict, the drama arising out of the conflict, the obstacles preventing the characters from achieving their goals) are told and should include action, reaction and decision for each plot point. All of these scenes will be leading towards point 4

Step 4) The final Crisis & Resolution. Here the characters encounter one last major obstacle that reiterates the conflict, before reaching resolution. However the story ends, happily or otherwise, the resolution should state how the characters have changed and grown through the course of the story.

Step 5) Polishing. Once completed the synopsis must be polished until it shines. There should be no errors, no unnecessary words. The synopsis is an ambassador for the book and should be the finest piece of work possible. Only when it is the best it can be, should it be sent out to agents.

Charlotte Dillon has very kindly grouped together a collection of interesting links on the subject of synopses which may be found at http://www.charlottedillon.com/synopsis.html

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