Many authors dread the prospect of writing a synopsis. In reality, a synopsis is one of the most crucial tools in your publishing journey. Without a solid and engaging synopsis, your manuscript may never get the attention it deserves. So, what is a synopsis? It’s a concise summary of your book that provides essential information about the plot, characters, and themes—essentially, it serves as the calling card for your manuscript.
The Function of a Synopsis
The purpose of a synopsis is to give agents, publishers, and readers a quick overview of your book. It’s often your first line of defense in getting noticed, as agents frequently request one as part of a submission package. A well-structured synopsis can pique interest, highlight your unique voice, and provide a snapshot of your creative vision.
Table of Contents
Essential Components of a Synopsis
1. Title and Author Information
Begin your synopsis with your book’s title and your name. Keep this standard; it sets a professional tone from the get-go.
2. Genre and Word Count
Indicate the genre of your novel (e.g., romance, thriller, science fiction) and the word count. Doing so helps agents quickly gauge whether your book fits their catalog.
3. Hook
The hook is a compelling one- or two-sentence statement that captures the essence of your story. It should entice the reader’s curiosity. For example, in a romance novel, the hook could focus on an unexpected twist in a love story. In a thriller, it might highlight the stakes involved for the protagonist.
4. Main Characters
Introduce your main characters and give a brief description of their motivations and conflicts. For example, if you’re writing a fantasy novel about a reluctant hero, mention their internal struggle between duty and desire. That helps readers understand who is at the heart of your story.
5. Setting
Include a brief description of the setting. Is it a bustling city, a quiet countryside, or an alien planet? The setting can significantly impact the tone and atmosphere of your story.
6. Plot Overview
Summarize the main plot points. Concentrate on the central conflict and the paths the characters take to resolve it. Avoid going into excessive detail; instead, emphasize the main arcs. For example:
- Inciting Incident: Describe a life-changing event that sets your story in motion.
- Rising Action: Outline the main challenges your character faces.
- Climax: What’s the turning point of your story?
- Falling Action: How do your characters address the fallout from the climax?
7. Themes
Discuss any overarching themes or messages your book explores. Themes might include love, betrayal, redemption, or the battle between good and evil. This section is necessary for illustrating how your story links to a broader literary context.
8. Conclusion/Resolution
Complete your synopsis with a brief note on how the conflict wraps up. Avoid divulging every detail but provide enough information so readers know what to expect.
Example of a Synopsis Template
Here’s a simplified example of a synopsis template:
- Title: Lost & Found
- Author: Jane Doe
- Genre: Young Adult Fiction
- Word Count: 65,000 words
Hook: When 17-year-old Mia uncovers a family secret, her life spirals into chaos as she searches for the truth, risking everything she holds dear.
Main Characters:
- Mia: A determined, adventurous teenager who struggles with her identity.
- Liam: Mia’s best friend, who harbors feelings for her but fears losing their friendship.
- Nana Ruth: Mia’s estranged grandmother, whose past holds the key to Mia’s search.
Setting: A small coastal town with a storied past and a tightly-knit community.
Plot Overview:
- Inciting Incident: Mia discovers an old letter revealing that her mother had a sister.
- Rising Action: As Mia digs deeper, she encounters resistance from her family and begins to unravel a painful history.
- Climax: Mia confronts her grandmother, leading to a heated confrontation about family loyalty and secrets.
- Falling Action: Relationships shift as Mia learns to accept the past and navigate her family’s complexities.
Themes: The search for identity, the weight of family secrets, and the journey of forgiveness.
Conclusion/Resolution: Mia emerges more self-aware, accepting her family’s imperfections while strengthening her bond with both Liam and her grandmother.
Writing Tips for Your Synopsis
Keep It Concise
A synopsis should generally be one to two pages long—no longer. It’s essential to distill your work’s message into a compact overview without overwhelming the reader. Be precise and intentional with your word choice.
Use Active Voice
Writing in the active voice can make your synopsis more engaging. Instead of saying, “The story is told by Mia,” say, “Mia navigates her turbulent journey.” This slight shift keeps the tone lively and immediate.
Tailor for Your Audience
Different agents and publishers may have specific preferences for synopsis formatting and style. Research your target before submitting your synopsis to ensure a happy reading for those evaluating your work.
Avoid Jargon
Writers often become lost in technical language and elaborate descriptions. A synopsis works best with clarity and straightforward language. Make it accessible for everyone, not just literary critics.
Edit Ruthlessly
Your first draft will likely require revisions. After writing, set your draft aside for a day or two, and then review it with fresh eyes. Look for clarity, impact, and grammatical errors. Ask a trusted friend or colleague to read it for feedback.
Show, Don’t Tell
While you can’t show action in a synopsis the way you would in a novel, you should still convey emotion and stakes. Use verbs and phrases that evoke the journey your character undertakes.
Personalize Your Synopsis
No two stories are the same. While a template provides a framework, ensure your synopsis reflects your unique style and voice. This personalization can set your work apart from the competition.
Tailoring Your Synopsis for Different Purposes
Query Letters
When writing a query letter to an agent, include a brief synopsis within the main section. That should be concise and much shorter than a one-page synopsis, ideally around 200-300 words. Think of it as a pitch that provides a taste of your book without revealing too much.
Publisher Submissions
Some publishers may request an extended synopsis, particularly for novels over 60,000 words. That is where you can expand on character arcs, plot points, and themes, allowing editors to see deeper connections and conflicts.
Book Blurbs
A synopsis differs from a back cover blurb. Blurbs are marketed toward readers to entice them into buying the book, while synopses focus more on storyline mechanics. Keep your tone more stimulating and enthusiastic in a blurb, inviting prospective readers rather than summarizing plot points.
Reviewing Example Synopses
Real-World Examples
Look at established works for inspiration. For instance, consider “The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins. The synopsis succinctly captures the essence of the dystopian world, the protagonist’s struggle, and the central conflict, all while following the proper structure. Reading diverse styles of successful synopses can sharpen your skills.
Hypothetical Scenario
Imagine you’re an aspiring author preparing a synopsis for a new mystery novel titled “The Silent Witness.” As your main character, Detective Sarah Levin, navigates a web of lies surrounding a high-profile murder case, you highlight her conflicts with personal demons and professional responsibilities. Critically assess your own synopsis in comparison to published ones, noting what they evoke vs what your synopsis does.
Implementing these tips will create a robust foundation for your writing arsenal. Recognizing the importance of a solid synopsis can arm you with the necessary tools to succeed in the competitive world of publishing. Understanding and mastering this integral component is just as essential as writing the perfect paragraph or crafting your character’s backstory.
Additional Information
When it comes to crafting a compelling synopsis, some overlooked strategies may elevate your writing to new heights.
- Hook the Reader Early: The first sentence ought to catch attention. Think of it as your personal elevator pitch. Instead of just summarizing the plot, set the mood or introduce a critical conflict.
- Limit Character Descriptions: While it’s vital to introduce your main characters, avoid lengthy backstories. Stay with the essentials that highlight their motivations and roles in the plot. The approach keeps the synopsis focused and engaging.
- Show, Don’t Tell: Use active language that demonstrates the character’s emotions and stakes instead of simply stating them. For example, instead of saying “he was angry,” show it with “he clenched his fists and glared.”
- Maintain a Tight Word Count: Publishers often prefer synopses that are concise. Aim for one page, roughly 250-300 words, to encourage clarity and precision.
- Include Themes and Conflicts: Readers want to know what’s at stake. Briefly include the central themes or conflicts that give your story depth without delving into detailed explanations.
- Avoid Subplots: A synopsis should focus on the main plot. Mentioning too many subplots can confuse the reader and dilute the overall impact of your main narrative.
- Use Present Tense: Keeping your synopsis in the present tense enhances immediacy and makes the story feel more alive to the reader.
- Tailor for Your Audience: If you’re targeting a specific genre or publishing house, adjust your language and focus to match what appeals to that particular demographic.
- Don’t Give Away the Ending: While resolving the central conflict is essential, revealing too much can diminish the reader’s experience. Offer just enough detail to create intrigue without disclosing the entire plot.
- Revise, Revise, Revise: Your first draft is just that—a draft. Refine your synopsis multiple times to make sure every word counts and contributes to the overall impression.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Related to the Synopsis Template
Q. What is a synopsis template?
A. A synopsis template is a structured outline that helps writers summarize their story, highlighting the main plot points, characters, and themes.
Q. Why do I need a synopsis for my book?
A. A synopsis is essential for pitches, queries, and submissions to agents or publishers. It helps convey the essence of your story clearly and concisely.
Q. How long should my synopsis be?
A. A typical synopsis ranges from one to two pages. However, some agents or publishers may specify a word count, so check their guidelines.
Q. What key elements should I include in my synopsis?
A. Your synopsis should include the main characters, the central conflict, the story arc, key plot points, and the resolution.
Q. Should I include spoilers in my synopsis?
A. Yes, it’s best to include spoilers, as agents and publishers need to understand the complete arc of the story, including how it resolves.
Q. Do I need to write my synopsis in the third person?
A. Yes, writing in the third person is common practice for synopses, regardless of the narrative style of your book.
Q. Can I use dialogue in my synopsis?
A. While uncommon, you can include brief dialogue if it enhances clarity or highlights character voice, but it’s typically best to focus on summarizing the story.
Q. How do I make my synopsis stand out?
A. Use engaging language, clearly present your unique selling points, and ensure that your synopsis reflects the tone and voice of your book.
Q. Is it okay to have a co-author when writing a synopsis?
A. Absolutely! Collaborating with a co-author on a synopsis can provide different perspectives and ideas, enhancing the overall summary.
Q. Should I revise my synopsis after finishing my manuscript?
A. Yes, revisiting your synopsis after completing your manuscript is essential. Doing this ensures it reflects the final version of your story clearly.
Conclusion
Crafting a compelling synopsis is essential for showcasing your book’s potential. A well-structured template can guide you in organizing your thoughts and presenting key elements well. Remember to keep it concise while sparking interest. With the right approach, your synopsis can be the ticket that opens doors to publishers and readers alike. Get started on refining your synopsis today, and watch your book take center stage.
