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A synopsis is a 500-800 word summary of your book that forms part of your agent submission pack. It should outline your plot in neutral non-salesy language and demonstrate a clear narrative arc. Every character, any big turning point or climactic scene, and all plot twists should get a mention.
- Get The Basics Down First
- Highlight What’s Unique
- Edit For Clarity and Excess
- Make Sure It Flows
When it comes to writing a synopsis, substance is the name of the game. No matter how nicely you dress it up, an agent will disregard any piece that doesn’t demonstrate a fully fleshed out plot and strong narrative arc. So it stands to reason that as you begin writing, you should focus on the fundamentals.
Now it’s time to spice up your synopsis by highlighting the elements that make it unique. Agents need to know what’s so special about yourbook in particular — and moreover, is it special enough to get readers to pick it up? Below are some features you might employ to grab an agent’s attention and assure them of your book’s appeal.
Don’t shroud your synopsis in mystery; this is very frustrating to agents who just want to know what happens in your book!With that in mind, after you’ve written the bulk of your summary, it’s time to edit for clarity. You also may have to delete some text, so you can get it right in that couple-page sweet spot.
By the time it’s finished, your synopsis should read like a summary from an excellent book review — or at the very least SparkNotes or Shmoop. This means not only clearly and concisely hitting every important point, but also reading in a smooth manner, placing just the right amount of emphasis on the critical moments and unique aspects we’ve discus...
Feb 7, 2024 · A book synopsis gives an outline of your novel to the agent. In this guide, we’ll learn how to write a book synopsis with detailed steps and examples.
May 1, 2020 · It’s probably the single most despised document you might be asked to prepare: the synopsis. The synopsis is sometimes necessary because an agent or publisher wants to see, from beginning to end, what happens in your story. Thus, the synopsis must convey a book’s entire narrative arc.
Sep 20, 2021 · To convince an agent or publisher your manuscript is one they should pay attention to, you need to have a great synopsis. Specific guidelines may vary, but as a rule of thumb, a synopsis is a one-page, double-spaced description of your entire story.
Nov 4, 2013 · Include EVERY plot point. Detail what the reader will learn and hit us over the head with metaphor and symbolism. Leave the ending, or other major plot points, out. TIP: If you want to be prepared in advance for when an agent asks, have a 1- and 3-page synopsis ready.
Dec 13, 2022 · Do you know how to write a synopsis that will make agents and publishers want to actually read your book? Learn the strategies behind writing a great synopsis now!
