Writing a book synopsis can be tricky – here are seven tips, to help you make it easier.
(With thanks to Writer for a Reason Unite member, Geoff, who requested this topic.)
Writing a book synopsis:
Tip 1:
Remember your target audience! If you’re writing a synopsis for an agent or publisher, you do not need to beware spoilers. The person reading, in this case, needs to know everything about the book, including how it ends, so lay everything out clearly.
Tip 2:
Begin with a sentence or two that sum up your story and what it’s about. If you can make your story stand out at this point, the agent/publisher is more likely to read on with enthusiasm.
Tip 3:
Next, describe your main character/s, including their motivations for getting embroiled in your plot.
Tip 4:
Give a brief summary of the main events in your story, starting at the beginning and working your way through. Make sure you highlight the main climax of the story, and how it ends.
Tip 5:
Try to keep the synopsis to one side of A4. 500-700 words would be ideal, unless the agent/publisher requests a particular word count.
Tip 6:
Agents and publishers receive lots of manuscripts, so you need yours to stand out. You need a kind of X factor, so make your story sound as thrilling as you can.
Tip 7:
Make every word count. Cut the waffle! Publishers and agents are busy people, so being succinct is useful.
Trust that helps you with your book synopsis. 🙂
Janet