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Tips for writing a good synopsis

1. Keep a notebook next to the computer while you are writing the first draft to jot down the threads to carry through the story. Refer to this when you are putting together the synopsis.

2. Note the important plot points, the conflict between the main characters. Answer the questions: what do the main characters want? (their goals); why do they want what they want? (their motivations); and what is keeping them from getting what they want?

3. Write a synopsis from an omniscient POV. Describe what the story is about, and how it progresses from beginning to end. Give a global view in the first paragraph, then break it down with more details.

4. The difference between Synopsis and Outline: A Synopsis is a summary in narrative format. An outline is more detailed description of what is in each chapter. An agent or editor may want an outline from a fiction writer , but generally, fiction writers do a synopsis; non-fiction writers submit an outline. Writers of both genres can use an outline for their own preparation of a project.

5. Recommended length for a synopsis is one page for every 10,000 words. Editors will often specify how long the synopsis should be in their manuscript guidelines.

6. Hook the editor/agent with a one-liner or paragraph to snag the editor's interest. The one-liner, also known as the "high concept" helps the editor market the project to his boss, or an acquisitions committee. The paragraph can become the back cover copy.

7. For most fiction genres, introduce the hero and heroine in the first paragraph of the synopsis.

8. As you relate the facts of the plot, describe every event through how the hero and heroine come together, what keeps them apart, what external events impact them and how they respond.

9. Tie up conflicts in the last paragraph of the synopsis. Never leave an editor dangling. Don't ever say, "You have to read the manuscript to see how the story ends."

10. Answer these questions: WHO (the main characters' names, ages, careers, personality traits); WHAT (internal and external conflicts, goals); WHEN (time period); WHERE (setting); WHY (why are they in this situation? Why do the events happen?); HOW (How do the events and relationships progress?)

11. The synopsis is a marketing tool for you to introduce the book, and the saleable element of the book.

12. Start with the back cover blurb, making it short, snappy and intriguing.

13. Keep the synopsis tight with no narrative, no long descriptions, and no dialogue.

14. Show the emotional foundation for the relationship between the main characters.

15. Tell the whole story, leave no secrets. Be sure the tone of the synopsis matches the story's tone.

16. A synopsis helps you prevent holes in the story and poor pacing. A synopsis is your tool for planning, writing, staying on course. A synopsis is your tool for marketing your manuscript.

Learn more about this author, Joyce Good Henderson.
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