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If you sub to me for #RevPit and I request additional materials, I will request a one- to two-page synopsis. Let's talk about what that should like so you can get it together now. Then you'll have it ready if an agent requests it in the future! (1/7)
A synopsis should be one to two pages, single-spaced, 3rd person, present tense. The purpose of a synopsis is to provide the facts of your novel. The agent/editor wants to know what happens from the beginning to the end of your story. (2/7)
Focus on the main character and summarizing the events. You do not need a hook in the synopsis. The synopsis is not about voice. The synopsis is a place to TELL instead of show. (What is this madness?!) Your goal is not to entice the agent/editor, it's to relay the facts. (3/7)
Include the stakes and conflict for the MC, how or if the conflict is resolved, and what has changed as a result. Start with chapter 1. Summarize the chapter in a paragraph. Continue until the end. Edit those paragraphs down to a few sentences. (4/7)
Do not include backstory or dialogue in the synopsis. Do not ask questions in the synopsis. Put the FIRST mention of each character's name in all caps. (5/7)
Your synopsis should answer these questions:
- Where does this story take place?
- When does this story take place?
- Who is the main character?
- What problem are they facing?
- What do they have to lose/gain?
- How do they handle the conflict?
- What changes as a result?
(6/7)
- Where does this story take place?
- When does this story take place?
- Who is the main character?
- What problem are they facing?
- What do they have to lose/gain?
- How do they handle the conflict?
- What changes as a result?
(6/7)
There are many free resources online if you're still having a hard time figuring out the synopsis. Many of the #RevPit editors offer synopsis critiques, too. Consider reaching out to one you're not subbing to (to avoid conflict of interest) for help if you need it. (7/7)
