Mastering the Art of Writing a Synopsis

Mastering the Art of the Synopsis Season 3, Episode 5

Hello, aspiring authors! It's Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid, your trusty navigators on the sea of publishing. In our latest episode,we dive deep into a territory that even the bravest writers often fear to tread—the dreaded synopsis.

Crafting a compelling synopsis is no less than an art. It's often the first window into your work for agents, publishers, and readers. So how do you distill the essence of your novel into a single page or two? Here's the wisdom we shared in this episode:

1. Length and Format
Your synopsis should be concise—about one to two pages, single-spaced. This isn't the place for your narrative to sprawl. Think of it as the elevator pitch of your manuscript.

2. Clarity and Focus
Cut through the clutter. Your synopsis should be a clear, focused narrative that distills your story to its essence. Skip the industry jargon and complex language; simplicity is key.

3. The Whole Story
This isn't a teaser like a back-cover blurb; a synopsis must reveal the entire plot, including how things wrap up. Leaving the ending a mystery in a synopsis is a cardinal sin.

4. Main Characters
Introduce us to your protagonists. Give us a glimpse of their desires, conflicts, and motivations. We should know who they are and what's at stake for them.

5. Key Plot Points
Walk us through the milestones of your story. From the inciting incident to the climax and resolution, make sure we understand the journey.

6. Emotional and Thematic Arcs
How do your characters grow? What are the broader themes or messages? These elements should be woven into your synopsis to give it depth.

7. Unique Selling Points
Does your book offer something out of the ordinary? Highlight the aspects that make your story stand out.

8. Style and Tone
Your synopsis should be a reflection of your book's voice. If your novel is humorous, let that humor sparkle in the synopsis too.

9. Proofread and Edit
Your synopsis is a reflection of your writing skills. Make sure it's polished to perfection—no typos, no grammatical errors, just clear and engaging writing.

10. Tailor to Your Audience
Are you sending this to an agent or publisher? Tailor your synopsis to fit their submission guidelines and preferences. This shows professionalism and attention to detail.

Remember, a synopsis is more than just a summary—it's your chance to showcase your storytelling prowess and hook your reader.

 
A Spar

The Happy Writer with Marissa Meyer

Authors, from debuts to bestsellers, chat about books, writing, publishing, and joy.

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