Writing Challenges 2-Writing A Synopsis

*Shudder*

For me, this is way, way harder than writing the book. It's right up there with giving speeches.

First, let's begin with what a synopsis really is. A synopsis is simply a summary of your book or manuscript. Its purpose is to give an accurate portrayal of your work in a condensed version. It reinforces the author's main point, the plot, main characters and their motivations, conflicts and resolutions. It should NOT be confused with the blurb.

The dos and don'ts of synopsis writing

DOS
-write in the present tense.
-write in the 3rd person even if your book isn't written this way.
-write the synopsis in the same style and tone that the book is written in. If your book is written with a dark tone, let your synopsis reflect that.
-write your synopsis in the same format that your manuscript is written. Double space your synopsis, use one-inch margins, left justification and a font like Arial or Times New Roman (these two fonts are generally accepted by editors).
- it must include the main characters of your work. Please do not list them. Incorporate them into the narrative.
-ensure that the paragraphs of your synopsis "flow" into each other and do not appear disjointed.
-include a "hook". This is 25 words or less describing your work. Its purpose is to capture the attention of your editor.
-include the conclusion of your work in your synopsis.
-arrange your information in the same order that it appears in your original work.
-when you think you're done, you're really not. The golden rule is edit, edit, edit, edit. Just as you would do with your manuscript, a synopsis needs revision.
-limit the number of pages you use for your synopsis. Generally, editors ask that it stays below 5 pages.

DON'TS
-do not include information that is not included in your work.
-do not include your opinion, or that of your best friends, family, spouse, the imaginary voice in your head, etc. NO personal opinions.
-do not include secondary characters or minor events.
-do not include rhetorical questions.

Here is an Example of a synopsis format:

Please ensure that there are no grammatical, spelling and punctuation errors. Do not forget that this is a representation of you. If it is riddled with errors, publishers will assume that your work is the same.

Some persons find it helpful to writing a draft synopsis before writing the book. Try it, see if it works for you. Writing is a world filled with trial and error.

I sincerely hope this was helpful.