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What is a Synopsis and How to Write One

By: Angelique Caffrey - Updated: 27 Aug 2018 | comments*Discuss
 
Synopsis Writing A Synopsis How To Write

A book synopsis is simply a very short description of the main theme of a nonfiction work. The synopsis deals with the novel’s central characters, their conflicts and their relationships. However, it does not get into any subplots unless they directly affect the central plot.

The book synopsis is typically used by editors to determine if they want to work with a new (or seasoned) author. Though editors (and agents) will probably read a sample chapter or two of a novel first, they’ll then want to skim the synopsis to get a feel for the whole work.

Note: If you’re having difficulty visualizing this definition of a synopsis, consider that the synopsis is acting in lieu of a book jacket or marketing device. Consequently, your synopsis should be action-oriented, written in the present tense and interesting enough to cause someone to say to him- or herself, “I have to read this book!”

When Do I Need a Synopsis?

Have you written a book? Are you contemplating writing one? If so, you’ll sooner or later want to write a synopsis.

Some authors actually prefer to write a synopsis before starting their books; that way, they can have a “game plan” for their novels before the weeks, months and – quite possibly – years of writing begin. Other authors wait until their books are finished before sitting down to write a synopsis. Either way allows a writer to have a synopsis that he or she can use in the future.

When Don’t I Need a Synopsis?

You don’t absolutely need a synopsis for your book if a) you’re planning on keeping your book for your own eyes and never want to become published; or b) you’re going to self-publish your novel, thereby eliminating the need for an editor or agent.

With that being said, writing a synopsis is still an exceptional exercise for authors and shouldn’t be avoided simply because it’s difficult. (Who ever said the easy route was the best one?)

What Should Be Included in a Synopsis?

As mentioned previously, your book synopsis should focus on:

  • The Main Characters
  • The Main Plot
  • The Main Conflicts

Anything superfluous should be jettisoned from the synopsis.

Not surprisingly, for most writers, it takes quite a long time to pare down a novel into a pithy synopsis. Some authors even request help from trusted writing companions to get them through the process or pay others to help them construct their synopsis. (And why not? After all, a strong synopsis could mean the difference between snagging an agent or having your work languish in the slush pile.)

How Long Should My Synopsis Be?

There’s no one acceptable length for synopses; in fact, editors and agents will probably have their own requirements when it comes to how long they expect synopses to be.

With that being noted, a general target is anywhere from two to twelve pages, but that definitely varies. It’s probably best to trim your synopsis down as much as you can without losing the intensity, action and flavour of your work. When you’re ready to send it to an editor or agent, find out what length he or she requests.

Should My Synopsis “Give Away” My Book’s Ending?

A synopsis should tell the entire plot of your book from beginning to end, and that includes your “shocking ending.” Many authors bristle when told to reveal their books’ “secrets”, but to an editor or agent, knowing how a novel concludes is critical.

Remember that the synopsis isn’t for the public’s eye; it’s for the eyes of someone who has the potential to bring your work to the public. So don’t hold back anything that’s important to the central theme of your book.

Will a Book Synopsis Help Me Sell My Work?

It’s a fact – a well-written, gripping book synopsis that holds the reader’s attention is more likely to win kudos than a poorly written one. With that being said, your entire book manuscript has to be just as wonderful. In other words, the synopsis and the full text work hand-in-hand… so start polishing them both!

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In short "a brief summary or general survey of something" OR "an outline of the plot of a play, film, or book." Thanks for sharing your views with us...Keep writing!
fastassignmenthelp - 27-Aug-18 @ 10:45 AM
diya - Your Question:
I need your help to write synopsis on the topic of "effect of gamma radiation on sanitary napkins"

Our Response:
The information for writing a synopsis is contained in the article, we cannot expand on this.
ExploreWriting - 22-Feb-18 @ 2:02 PM
i need your help to write synopsis on the topic of "effect of gamma radiation on sanitary napkins"
diya - 20-Feb-18 @ 7:44 AM
I have no problem with writing screenplays but when it comes to writing the synopsis I just can't seem to write it in the same dynamic way as I do with my screenplay..I work part time..how can I get help??
JCarlos - 28-May-17 @ 2:32 AM
Am writing a book on an African language and I wanted to know if i have to write a synopsis.
Nikki - 7-May-17 @ 4:04 PM
I have a bit of a dilemma. I have written a synopsis which I am happy with. My genre is YA, bridging urban fantasy/fantasy/paranormal romance, my characters are from different races that I have created with unique abilities. As I am not following any previously established format for races/abilities ie: vampires who suck blood etc should I include a list of races and which abilities each possess at the end of the synopsis? The synopsis still makes sense without it and I have mentioned all the races with a very brief overview of each but I feel like any agent/publisher would want to know exactly which ability each character possesses and what it does, some have multiple abilities and I haven't mentioned all of them in the synopsis as some are part of the sub plot rather than the main plot. I have searched online for answers to this question but have been unable to find anything. Thanks in advance for any advice on this matter
Cherryblue - 23-Jan-17 @ 6:47 AM
Hi, could you please advise how to write a synopsis, my first book is ' Touching moment with a Girl who is no more'. Please help me, how can i find an expert to publish my book.
ahmed - 29-Aug-16 @ 9:05 PM
Is it necessary to write a synopsis for a book that encourages people about life and then leads them to the future without making mistakes that will hold them from making their dreams come true and achieve their goals. Is a book that talks to everyone but it mostly talks more to the youth. Help me with this if truly I must write a synopsis even for this kind of a book because it is not drama, fantasy or any kind of story or maybe a reality to be told but an encouragement to everyone.
MasterMind - 16-Apr-16 @ 10:27 PM
I have four book series ‘Do It Today’ to provide the much needed inspiration to our budding professionals. I hope that by reading these books our youth will be inspired to strive for success in their chosen endeavors. These books will help in powering our youth personal and/ or professional image. Youth will learn the essential tools and strategies needed to build a structure for personal fulfillment and professional success. “Let’s LEAD Again” is my first book of series “Do It Today” this book has been specially written for youth, who are the future leaders, to show them that there is no big secret about achieving success in theircareer and in life. Now I am seeking your help in developing a Synopsis for attracting Literary Agent for publication of my book.Looking forwarded for a favorable response.Regards.
Imtiaz - 11-May-15 @ 8:17 AM
Anyone who know of a publisher whocan publish my zulu drama book please help me.
sexyeyes - 9-Apr-15 @ 11:06 AM
I have been given an assignment to write our retiring General memoir. I would require for intrance to this assignment
Double Trouble - 22-Jun-12 @ 12:58 PM
Question, can anyone answer this question?Can I write a synopsis of a book for publication and if so where can I find the parameters of what you can and can't do, such as quotes - what percent of the synopsis can be quotes etc.I would like to write synopis of health and self help books so I have no plot etc. therefore would like to quote the author a fair amount, then paraphrasing author's info along with what author has presented as general knowledge etc.Must one have permission from the author to do this?
Bridget - 22-Jul-11 @ 5:41 PM
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