Learn how to create a comprehensive synopsis for any project or presentation

When it comes to summarizing your project, whether it’s a book, film, or any other literary endeavor, a well-crafted synopsis is essential. It is a brief summary of the main plot, characters, and conflict of your work, serving as a way to give agents, publishers, or potential readers a taste of what’s to come. Writing a strong synopsis can be a daunting task, but with the right format and structure, you’ll be able to confidently present your project.

To begin, it’s important to understand the purpose and context of a synopsis. It is not meant to replace the whole story; instead, it acts as a concise overview. A good synopsis should include the main characters, the central conflict, and how the plot unfolds, while leaving out unnecessary details. It should be around 500-800 words long, depending on the project.

One recommended approach is to break your synopsis down into three paragraphs, each representing a different stage of the story. In the first paragraph, you’ll want to highlight the setup of the story, including the main character, their goal, and the setting. This is also where you can include a brief logline or catchy title to attract attention.

In the second paragraph, dive deeper into the plot. Explain what happens in the story, the obstacles the protagonist encounters, and how they evolve throughout the project. Make sure to keep the focus on the main storyline and not get too caught up in minor details. The climax of the story should be the central point of this paragraph, as it is the highest point of tension and conflict.

The final paragraph should wrap up the synopsis, focusing on the resolution or ending of the story. Explain how the conflict is resolved and what the outcome is for the main characters. This is also where you can briefly mention any unique or standout features of your project that sets it apart.

When writing your synopsis, remember to keep it concise, yet engaging. Use clear and descriptive language, and try to create a sense of excitement that will leave the reader wanting to know more. And don’t forget to proofread your work for any typos or grammatical errors before submitting it to agents or publishers. With a well-crafted synopsis, you’ll have the confidence to present your project to the world.

Writing a Synopsis

When it comes to writing a synopsis, it is important to know the purpose and structure of this document. A synopsis is a summary of your whole project, whether it’s a film, literary work, or any other creative endeavor. It includes the main characters, plot, conflict, and resolution in a concise and engaging manner.

The length of a synopsis can vary, but it is typically around 1-2 pages long. Some agents and publishers may request a shorter version, such as a one-page or half-page synopsis. This is why it’s important to have a template that you can adapt to different requirements.

The first paragraph of your synopsis should provide an overview of the story setup, including the central conflict and the main character’s goal or motivation. This will give the readers an idea of what they can expect from your work and hook them from the beginning.

Following the setup, you’ll need to include the major events and incidents that drive the plot forward. These can be divided into three or four paragraphs, each focusing on a key act or stage of the story. Make sure to highlight the most important moments and keep the pacing engaging.

The climax of your story is an important point to emphasize in your synopsis. This is the moment where the conflict reaches its peak and the main character faces the biggest challenge. It’s what readers and publishers will want to know more about, so make sure to zoom in on this part.

After the climax, you can include a paragraph about the resolution and the ending of the story. This will give the readers a sense of closure and wrap up any loose ends. However, be careful not to reveal too much or spoil the ending.

In addition to the plot, character names and any important details should be mentioned in your synopsis. This will help the readers to understand the story better and visualize it in their minds.

While writing a synopsis can be a challenging task, it’s important to remember that its purpose is to help you pitch your project to agents and publishers. It should make them want to know more about your work and ultimately consider it for publication or representation.

Before you start writing, make sure you have a clear understanding of your project and its main points. A logline and a title can help you stay focused and on track while writing the synopsis. Also, don’t forget to proofread and revise your work to make sure it’s error-free and engaging.

Writing a synopsis may seem hard, but with practice and following these guidelines, you’ll learn how to make an effective and compelling summary of your work. It will help you in the submission process and increase your chances of success.

What is a synopsis

A synopsis is a brief summary or outline of a written work, such as a novel, film, or academic paper. It provides an overview of the main plot, characters, and setting, while also highlighting the key events and conflict. The purpose of a synopsis is to introduce the main points of the work and entice the reader or agent to want to read more.

When writing a synopsis, it’s important to be concise and clear. Typically, a synopsis should be no more than one to three pages long, depending on the project and submission guidelines. You’ll want to include the main plot points, characters, and their motivations, as well as the climax and resolution of the story.

A good synopsis should also capture the tone and style of the work, giving the reader or agent a sense of the writing and the overall feel of the manuscript. It should highlight the unique elements of the story and make the reader or agent want to know more.

While there is no standard template for writing a synopsis, there are some guidelines to help you get started. Typically, a synopsis will begin with a brief introduction, introducing the main character and setting up the conflict. It will then summarize the main plot points, focusing on the most important events and developments.

As you write your synopsis, be sure to check for spelling and grammatical errors. It’s also a good idea to have someone else, such as a trusted friend, read through your synopsis and provide feedback. This can help catch any mistakes or areas that need improvement.

In terms of length, it is recommended to aim for around four to seven paragraphs, depending on the length of the work. Each paragraph should summarize a different aspect of the story, such as the main character, the conflict, or the climax.

For academic papers, the purpose of the synopsis is often to provide an overview of the research and findings. In this case, the synopsis may be longer and include more details about the methodology and results.

Overall, a synopsis is a valuable tool for writers and can help them communicate their ideas and storylines to agents, publishers, or academic reviewers. By crafting a strong synopsis, writers can showcase the main elements of their work and generate interest and confidence in their writing.

Remember, the main goal of a synopsis is to give the reader or agent a clear and enticing overview of the work. It should be well-written, engaging, and leave the reader wanting to know more.

What’s the purpose of a synopsis and why is it important

A synopsis serves as a condensed summary of your manuscript, film, or project. Its purpose is to give an overview of your story, including its main characters, setting, and key events, in a concise and cohesive way. The synopsis is an essential tool for writers, as it allows them to convey the essence of their work to agents, publishers, or potential readers.

One of the main reasons why a synopsis is important is because it helps agents and publishers quickly grasp the main points of your story, without having to read the entire manuscript. By reading the synopsis, they can make an informed decision about whether your work aligns with their publishing interests. It also allows them to determine if your story is unique and compelling enough to be considered for publication.

A well-crafted synopsis can also serve as a writing tool for the writer. The process of condensing your story into a few paragraphs helps you identify the core elements of your narrative, such as the main conflicts, the climax, and the resolution. It forces you to think critically about the structure of your story and ensure that each scene and character contributes to the overall plot.

When writing a synopsis, it’s important to keep it concise and focused. Aim to capture the essence of your story within a specific word count or page limit, usually between 1-4 pages or 500-2000 words. Start with a strong opening paragraph that introduces the main character and the central conflict. Then, outline the major plot points and incidents that move the story forward, including the climax and the resolution.

Make sure to include the names of the main characters and their goals, as well as the setting and any other important elements that contribute to the story. However, avoid getting into too much detail or including unnecessary subplots or minor characters. Stick to the main thread of the story and focus on the most significant events.

Another important aspect of a synopsis is to maintain a clear and well-structured narrative. Use paragraphs to separate different stages of the story and help the reader follow along. Be mindful of the language you use, and try to strike a balance between being informative and captivating. Remember, the purpose of a synopsis is to entice the reader and make them want to know more about your story.

In academic or school settings, writing a synopsis can also be an important learning exercise. It teaches students how to summarize complex ideas and present them in a concise and coherent manner. It helps them develop their writing skills and gain confidence in their abilities to communicate their thoughts effectively.

Overall, whether you are a writer or a student, creating a synopsis is an important step in the process of presenting your work. It not only allows agents and publishers to quickly grasp the essence of your story but also helps you as a writer to refine your narrative and gain a better understanding of its key components. So, take the time to craft a compelling synopsis that will showcase your project in the best possible light.

How to format your synopsis

Formatting your synopsis is just as important as writing a compelling story. If your synopsis is poorly formatted, it may appear unprofessional and could discourage literary agents or publishers from reading it. Here are some tips to help you format your synopsis:

1. Introduce the central character and their goal: Start your synopsis with a brief paragraph that includes the protagonist’s name, their main goal, and what stands in their way. This will give agents and publishers a clear idea of what the story is about.

2. Summarize the main conflict and plot points: In the following paragraphs, provide a summary of the main conflict and key plot points in your story. Include the inciting incident, the rising action, the climax, and the resolution. Be sure to keep it concise and to the point.

3. Include the antagonist and other important characters: Mention the antagonist and any other significant characters that add depth to your story. Briefly describe their roles and how they impact the protagonist’s journey.

4. Write a full synopsis, not just a logline or pitch: While it’s important to be brief, your synopsis should provide enough details to give a sense of the whole story. Avoid writing a logline or pitch that only provides a brief summary. Agents and publishers want to see the full story.

5. Check for spelling and grammar: It’s hard for agents and publishers to take your writing seriously if your synopsis is riddled with errors. Make sure to proofread your synopsis thoroughly before submitting it.

6. Format your synopsis properly: Make sure your synopsis is double-spaced, uses a readable font and font size, and has a header that includes your name, contact details, and the title of your project. It’s also a good idea to number the pages.

7. Follow any specific guidelines provided: Some agents or publishers may have specific formatting requirements for synopses. Make sure to check their guidelines and follow them accordingly.

By following these formatting tips, you’ll be able to present your synopsis in a professional and organized manner. This can give you more confidence when submitting your work and increase your chances of grabbing the attention of agents and publishers.

1 Write a header

When it comes to writing a synopsis, the first thing you need to do is write a strong and attention-grabbing header. This is the whole point where you introduce your novel or project with a title that will hook the readers, agents, or publishers. The header should include the main character names, central conflict, and the setting. It should summarize the plot in a few words, and also provide a hint of the climax and ending.

It’s important to make sure that the header is concise and to the point. Agents and publishers receive numerous submissions every day, so you want to make sure that your header stands out. They might want to know what your story is about before they even begin reading. A good header will give them a clear idea of what to expect.

For example:

Title: The Geller Incident

Genre: Mystery/Thriller

Main Characters: Jonny Geller

Central Conflict: Jonny Geller, a high school academic prodigy, is thrust into a web of intrigue when he discovers some details about a government conspiracy.

Setting: The story takes place in a small academic school, where Jonny is determined to uncover the truth while uncovering some secrets of his own.

Writing a compelling header is essential because it sets the stage for the rest of the synopsis. It helps the agents or publishers understand what your story is about and why they should be interested in reading the whole synopsis. It also gives you confidence and clarity about what you’re writing and helps you stay focused while summarizing your novel or project.

In the next paragraphs, you’ll learn more about how to write an effective synopsis and what to include in each section.

2 Include your contact details

When you write a synopsis, it’s important to include your contact details so that agents or publishers can easily reach you if they are interested in your project. This includes your name, phone number, email address, and any relevant social media handles.

Make sure to include your contact details at the top of the page, either in the header or in a separate paragraph. This way, they will be easy to find and won’t get lost in the rest of your synopsis.

Including your contact details is especially important if you are submitting your synopsis to agents or publishing houses. They need to know how to get in touch with you if they want to learn more about your project.

While it’s important to include your contact details, don’t spend too much time on this section. Keep it brief and to the point. Agents and publishers are more interested in the content of your synopsis than in your personal information.

Additionally, be professional in your contact details. Use a professional email address and avoid including unnecessary details.

Including your contact details is just one part of creating a successful synopsis. In the next sections, we’ll learn more about how to introduce your main characters, summarize the plot, and structure your synopsis effectively.

3 Write the logline

Once you’ve completed the first two stages of writing a synopsis, it’s time to move on to the next step: writing the logline. The logline is a one or two sentence summary that introduces the main characters, central conflict, and overall purpose of your story. It’s usually the first thing literary agents and publishers see when they review your submission, so it’s important to make it engaging and concise.

To write a logline, you’ll want to follow a format that includes specific details about your project. Here’s a template to help you:

Number	What to include
1	The setup – Introduce the main character and their context
2	The incident – Describe the central conflict or problem they face
3	The goal – Explain what the main character wants to achieve
4	The antagonist – Specify the main obstacle or opposition they’ll encounter
5	The setup’s point – Reveal the main character’s turning point or the action that sets the story in motion

When writing your logline, keep it short and to the point. Aim for around 30 words or less. Make sure to mention the genre of your story and avoid using character names. Focus on the central conflict and what makes your story unique. Use action words and specific details to grab the reader’s attention.

For example: “In a post-apocalyptic world, a lonely scientist must race against time to find a cure for a deadly virus and save what’s left of humanity.”

Writing a logline can help you clarify the main elements of your story and ensure that you’re staying focused on the most important aspects. It can also serve as a pitch or summary when you’re talking about your project to others, whether it’s in a professional setting like a pitch meeting or casual conversation with friends. It’s a valuable tool for writers at any stage of their manuscript, and can even be helpful before you start writing, as it allows you to establish the purpose and direction of your story with confidence.

4 Introduce the main characters and setting

When writing a synopsis, it is important to introduce the main characters and setting in a brief and concise manner. This will give the reader an understanding of the central conflict and context of the story. In the synopsis, you’ll want to include the names of the main characters and a brief description of who they are and what their role is in the story. You should also provide some information about the setting, such as where and when the story takes place.

For example, let’s say you’re writing a novel called “The Adventures of Jonny Geller”. In this novel, Jonny Geller is the protagonist and is going on a journey to save the world from an evil antagonist. In the synopsis, you might include a few sentences introducing Jonny Geller and the antagonist, highlighting their roles in the story and the conflict between them.

It’s also important to provide some context for the reader to understand the setup of the story. You can briefly mention any important incidents or events that occur before the main plot begins, as well as any important background information about the characters. This will help the reader better understand the plot and the motivations of the characters.

When introducing the main characters and setting, make sure to keep it concise and to the point. The purpose of this section is to give the reader a general idea of the characters and setting, rather than providing a full, long explanation. You can use a bulleted list or a short paragraph to summarize the information.

In summary, the fourth section of your synopsis should introduce the main characters and setting. It should include the names of the characters, a brief description of who they are, and what their roles are in the story. You should also provide some information about the setting, such as where and when the story takes place. By introducing the main characters and setting, you will give the reader a clear understanding of the central conflict and context of the story.

5 Summarize Act 1 The Setup

In a synopsis, the setup is an important part of summarizing Act 1 of your novel, film, or literary work. In this section, you’ll learn how to write a brief summary of the important things that happen at the beginning of your story.

When summarizing Act 1, it’s helpful to include the central conflict, the main characters, and the setting. You’ll also want to include the inciting incident, which is the event that sets the story in motion. The setup should give readers or agents a sense of what’s going to be going on in the story and introduce them to the main character or characters.

To begin, you’ll want to provide a header with the title of your work, the author or author’s name, the page number, and a brief logline or summary. This can help publishers and agents quickly understand the context of your submission.

When summarizing Act 1, you can follow a template like this:

1. Introduction: Provide a brief summary of the story and the main character or characters.
2. Setting: Describe the time and place where the story takes place.
3. Inciting Incident: Describe the event that sets the story in motion.
4. Conflict: Explain the central conflict or problem that the main character faces.
5. Summary: Write a summary of the events that lead up to the climax of Act 1.

Remember to keep the summary brief and to the point. You’ll want to include enough details to give readers or agents a sense of what the story is about, but you don’t need to include every little thing that happens. Focus on the most important events and characters.

Summarizing Act 1 can help you see the overall structure of your story and ensure that the setup is engaging and compelling. It’s also a useful exercise to do before you start writing, as it can help you clarify your ideas and make sure you have a solid foundation for your narrative.

By learning how to make a synopsis for Act 1, you’ll be better prepared to pitch your story to publishers and agents or share it with potential readers. The synopsis will also help you stay focused on the main plot and central conflict while writing your novel or script.

So, before you start writing your next novel or film, take some time to create a synopsis for Act 1. It will help you craft a strong beginning, middle, and end, and make sure your story is compelling from start to finish.

6 Summarize Act 2 The Conflict

Act 2 is where the conflict in your story really starts to heat up. This is the section of your manuscript where the main characters are faced with challenges and obstacles that test their resolve. In your synopsis, you will want to summarize the key conflicts and obstacles that the characters encounter in this act.

Start by introducing the main conflict or antagonistic force that the characters are up against. This could be a person, a group, or even a difficult situation. Give a brief description of what the conflict is and what the characters are up against.

Next, summarize the main events and challenges that occur in this act. This could include important plot twists or turning points that push the story forward. Be sure to include any key moments or incidents that shape the characters or their relationships.

As you summarize, keep in mind the overall structure and context of your story. The conflict in Act 2 should build upon what has been set up in Act 1 and eventually lead into Act 3, where the story reaches its climax and resolution. You might also want to include some information about the setting and the characters involved in the conflict.

A good way to format your synopsis is to use the three-act structure. In Act 2, the conflict should escalate and the stakes should get higher for the characters. This is where the tension and drama really start to amp up.

Remember, your synopsis should be brief and concise, so choose the most important events and conflicts to include. Check out some examples from other sources to get a sense of how much detail to include in your summary.

When writing your synopsis, it’s also a good idea to follow the format and guidelines provided by literary agents or publishers. They might have specific requirements for a synopsis, such as page limits or sections that they want you to include.

Finally, don’t forget to include a logline or elevator pitch for your project. This is a one-sentence summary of your story that captures the essence of what it’s about. It’s a great way to introduce your story and hook the reader.

Summarize Act 2 The Conflict:

• Introduce the main conflict or antagonistic force
• Summarize the key events and challenges faced by the characters
• Include important plot twists and turning points
• Consider the three-act structure and how Act 2 fits into the overall story
• Keep your synopsis brief and concise
• Follow any guidelines provided by literary agents or publishers
• Include a logline or elevator pitch for your project

7 Summarize Act 3 The Climax

When writing a synopsis, it is important to include a summary of Act 3, which is the climax of the story. This is the central point of conflict or tension in the plot, where the main character faces their greatest challenge and the outcome of the story is decided.

In Act 3, you want to include the setup for the climax, which might be a long paragraph or a series of incidents that lead to the central point. This is the stage where all the conflicts and plotlines come together, and the characters will have to make important decisions that will determine the outcome of the story.

It is also important to make sure that you check the context of the climax. This means considering what has happened before Act 3 and what will happen after. You might want to include a brief summary of Act 2, which includes the rising action that leads up to the climax.

In Act 3, the climax will often follow a major incident or turning point that occurs in Act 2. This is when the conflict reaches a boiling point and the tension is at its highest. It is important to clearly identify this point in your synopsis and explain how it leads to the climax.

When summarizing Act 3, it is also important to include the resolution or ending of the story. This is the point where the main character reaches their goal or fails to do so, and the loose ends of the plot are tied up. Make sure to include how the conflicts are resolved and what happens to the characters.

While writing your synopsis, keep in mind that you should be brief and to the point. Agents and publishers often receive many submissions and may not have time to read lengthy synopses. Aim for a summary that is no more than 1-2 pages long, depending on the specific guidelines provided.

To structure your synopsis, you might want to follow a format like the logline, which includes the title, genre, and a brief summary of the plot. You can also include a header at the top of each page with the title of your work and your contact information.

When summarizing Act 3, be sure to focus on the important details of the climax and the actions and decisions of the characters. Avoid getting bogged down in too many minor plot points or unnecessary descriptions.

It can be hard to condense a whole act into a few paragraphs, but with practice and revision, you can learn to write a concise and effective synopsis that captures the essence of the story.

Some writers find it helpful to summarize each act of their story before attempting to write a full synopsis. This can help you organize your thoughts and see the structure of the story more clearly.

Things to include in your Act 3 summary:	Things to avoid in your Act 3 summary:
– The central point of conflict or climax	– Unnecessary details or descriptions
– The setup for the climax	– Getting bogged down in minor plot points
– The major incident or turning point in Act 2	– Long paragraphs or excessive length
– The resolution or ending of the story	– Lack of focus on important details
– The actions and decisions of the characters	– Neglecting to check the context of the climax

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your Act 3 summary is clear, concise, and captures the essence of your story’s climax.

Courses to help you pitch with confidence

• Learn what’s going on in the literary world while you know their purpose.
• Make sure you introduce your characters, conflict, and plot.
• Know how to structure your synopsis in three acts.
• Include the title, genre, and word count of your manuscript.
• Write a brief summary of the whole story including the beginning, middle, and ending.
• Use a template or format to help you summarize your novel.
• Know the important things to include in a pitch.
• Learn how to create a compelling hook or tagline to grab an agent’s attention.
• Understand the role of the climax and resolution in your story.
• Learn how to create conflict and tension on every page.
• Know the difference when pitching to academic or commercial publishers.
• Learn how to write a synopsis that is concise and to the point.
• Understand the structure of a synopsis and how it differs from a full manuscript.
• Know the proper length and number of paragraphs for a synopsis.
• Learn how to pitch your novel in 1-2 sentences or a logline.
• Know what agents and publishers look for in a synopsis.
• Learn how to make your characters appear vibrant and engaging in a synopsis.
• Understand the context and setting of your novel.
• Know how to write an engaging first line and hook the reader.
• Learn how to summarize the main incidents and turning points of the plot.
• Know the recommended length for a synopsis.
• Learn how to pitch with confidence and showcase your unique voice as a writer.

These courses can help aspiring writers and authors to prepare and confidently pitch their manuscripts to agents and publishers. By learning the art of writing a synopsis, writers can effectively communicate the essence of their story, characters, and plot in a concise and captivating manner. With the right skills and knowledge, writers can increase their chances of their work being noticed and considered for publication.

Sources

When it comes to learning how to write a synopsis, it’s important to know where to turn for guidance and resources. Here are some sources that can help you:

1. Writing Courses:	Take writing courses or workshops that specialize in the art of synopsis writing. These courses will teach you the structure and purpose of a synopsis and help you develop your skills.
2. Literary Agents:	Agents are experts in the publishing industry and can provide valuable insights into what agents are looking for in a synopsis. They can also help you refine and polish your synopsis before submission.
3. Books and Templates:	There are many books and online resources that provide step-by-step guides and templates for writing a synopsis. These resources can help you understand the elements of a good synopsis and provide guidance as you write your own.
4. Writing Communities and Forums:	Join writing communities or forums where you can connect with other writers and get feedback on your synopsis. These communities can provide valuable support and advice throughout the writing process.
5. Academic Writing:	If you’re a student or have a background in academic writing, you may already have some experience with summarizing and analyzing texts. Use these skills to your advantage when writing a synopsis.
6. Jonny Geller:	Jonny Geller is a literary agent and author who has written extensively on the art of writing a synopsis. His books and articles offer practical advice and tips for crafting a compelling synopsis.

These sources will help you learn the key elements of a synopsis, such as how to introduce your main characters, set up the central conflict, and describe the climax and resolution of your story. They will also provide you with examples and guidelines on how to structure your synopsis and make sure it captures the essence of your novel.