June 10th, 2019

I hate writing up a synopsis. Absolutely hate it. But, when I’m reviewing a manuscript, it’s the first thing I look for. Why? If constructed well, it will sell your writing, or more importantly the book. The reader (agent, publisher) will know from reading this baby that you understand the basics – setting the scene, conflict and character development. 
 
With a synopsis, you can’t hide. 
 
I get it though, they’re difficult to write. How much info to add? What to add? Is it just a series of plot points?
 
Yes and no. 
 
Things to remember when writing a synopsis:
 

• At the top of your page, give the book title, your author name, the word count and the genre. If you’re feeling brave, list your tropes. 
• Open with your hook. What’s the story set-up in two to three lines? The main conflict? Start with that. Why? Because it grips your reader. 
• Write up your characters’ full names in CAPS when you first introduce them
• Set the tone. Don’t be afraid to write it up in the same tone as the book. If your book is snarky, make the synopsis snarky. 
• Identify your key external conflict events and write those up. 
• Then, go back and write up the internal conflict that’s at play during those events
• Include the ending (hint, it should be a happy one)

 
Can you use a quote from the text? Yes, of course. Keep it brief, though. 
 
How many pages? Again, keep it brief, one to two pages?
 
Hint: these are often easier to write AFTER you’ve finished the novel. 
 
What are your feelings about writing a synopsis?

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