Writing a synopsis:

I am doing research and took some notes off several sites who gave advice on writng synopsis. The sites are listed below and here are some of the key ideas I learned.

– In the upper left hand corner you should have the following info:Synopsis of “Title here”Genre:……………..Word count:By__________ Single space your synopsis.

– One page.

– The short synopsis of power starts with SETTING – when and where the story is set.

– Written in third person, present tense,

– The first mention of each character’s name is put in all-caps

– We describe the chronological sequence

– Reveal big problems in your story. Include core conflict

– Use active voice, not passive

– demonstrate what is at stake

– Choose your descriptive words carefully, ensuring that you’re using words that carry a lot of weight

– written in the same style of writing your book is written in

– Opening hook

– synopsis includes the characters’ FEELINGS and EMOTIONS.

– book: Archetypes that Make Your Story Resonate

– Incident (Story Advancement) + Reaction (Color) = Decision (Story Advancement)

– The main plot elements – the main conflict, the dramatic high points, the climax, and, of course, the resolution

– include all major turning points associated with that formula.

– ending paragraph must show how major conflicts are resolved

– main characters’ conflicts clearly defined?

– Leave all the complex subplots out.

– Don’t include any unnecessary detail, description, or explanation.

– most agents finally settling on 1-2 pages, total. If you write yours as one page, single-spaced, it’s the same length as two pages, double-spaced — and either are acceptable

– Read through what you’ve written and check that every event in the story naturally leads into the next. Imagine beginning each sentence with a Because

– (Synopses longer than one page should be double-spaced.) Its paragraphs are usually indented, with no spaces between paragraphs. You do not use a cover page or any fancy headings or fonts.

– use the type of energetic and brisk voice you need for your synopsis read the backs of paperback novels.

– Write your synopsis in the same format as your manuscript.

– removing excess words and phrases that don’t help you tell the story.

– what is at stake for your heroes, what they stand to lose, and how it all turns out.

– Cut adverbs and adjectives from your synopsis – write as minimally as you can.

Want to add to the list? Please do so in the comment section of the blog. If you have done a blog on this topic, please share your link.

Sources:

http://www.writersdigest.com/editor-blogs/guide-to-literary-agents/synopsis-writing

http://www.fictionwriters.com/tips-synopsis.html

http://literaryconsultancy.co.uk/media/press-publicity/how-to-write-a-synopsis/

http://janefriedman.com/2011/10/25/novel-synopsis/

http://writersrelief.com/blog/2008/01/how-to-write-a-synopsis-for-a-novel/