To Sum Up: Writing the Synopsis
Whether you write your novel from a detailed outline or write by the seat of your pants, ultimately you finish your novel and send it out into the publishing world.
A synopsis accompanies your manuscript and shows an editor the plot. It explains your basic premise, theme, subject matter, setting, who is who and why they should care about your protagonist and his struggle. It also gives the editor a sense of voice, pacing and genre. All in under 2000 words (check each publisher or editor’s word limit).
Here’s the process simplified:
First draft of synopsis: Note the important points of each chapter—one sentence main event. INCLUDE THE ENDING.
Second draft: flesh out the beginning. Set up the world you’ve created and the protagonist’s character and his problem.
Third draft: join the chapter summaries together smoothly and turn everything into third person, present tense. The first time you mention a character, put his name in all CAPS.
Fourth draft: fill in gaps in sentences so the plot makes sense. Use transition words, such as because; then; since and add explanation as needed. Because Tom knew his father was dying…
Fifth draft: Focus on character arc. Make sure you note how your character is growing as a result of the plot.
Final draft: tighten your writing. Don’t be afraid to leave out details, secondary characters, side plots and explanations. But do make sure you include the ending.
Even before you send your novel into the world, writing this synopsis can be helpful in helping you plan your writing and revisions. A few pages that summarize your novel helps you see plot gaps and needed character development. A synopsis sent to your critique group along with your novel will help them see where you’re headed so they can make suggestions that might help you can get there.
