How to format a novel synopsis?
Asked by: John Lewis
Formatting a Synopsis Standard synopsis format is very similar to standard manuscript format. You should use one inch margins, double space, indent your paragraphs, number your pages, use 12 pt Times New Roman or another easy to read font, and include the title. The one exception to this is one page synopses.
How long should a synopsis be for a novel?
about 500-1000 words
Write a one- or two-page synopsis—about 500-1000 words, single spaced—and use that as your default, unless the submission guidelines ask for something longer. If your synopsis runs longer, anything up to two pages (again, single spaced) is usually acceptable.
What are the three parts of a synopsis?
3 Essential Parts of a Novel Synopsis
Characters: The protagonist and antagonist form the foundation of your story. Make the main characters and secondary characters strong and memorable from the outset. Read more about character development here. Conflict: Conflict is the primary tension that keeps readers reading.
What should a good synopsis include?
➡️ A book synopsis should be between 500 and 800 words. This works out at approximately 1 single-spaced page in a standard 12pt font. ➡️ Your synopsis should include 5 key elements. This includes the premise, a main plot and subplot overview, your main characters, and an implicit outline of the appeal of your book.
What makes a good synopsis?
The synopsis should include the title, word count, genre and your name at the top of the page. Ideally the synopsis should fit on one page. Stylistically, your synopsis should be written in present tense and told from a (third person) omniscient narrator’s point of view.
What is an example of a synopsis?
Example of a Synopsis. Here’s an example of a short synopsis of the story of Jack and Jill: Jack and Jill is the story of a boy and a girl who went up a hill together. They went to fetch a pail of water, but unfortunately, their plan is disrupted when Jack falls and hits his head, and rolls back down the hill.
How do you write a killer synopsis?
6 Secrets to Writing a Killer Synopsis
- Set the scene. The first line of a synopsis should help the reader visualize when and where the action takes place. …
- Find the central conflict. …
- Sprinkle in key details. …
- Use the present tense. …
- Go easy on the modifiers. …
- Set up the third act—and stop there.
How long is a synopsis?
Most synopses are one or two pages long at most and give the reader a basic idea for what the book is about. Here’s another: Suggested length of synopsis, according to Wood: ten to twenty-five pages (each chapter one to three pages).
How do you start a synopsis?
How to write a novel synopsis in 4 steps
- Start with major plot points. Naturally, you want agents to be aware of your story’s major plot points. …
- Include character motivations. …
- Voice. …
- Plot twists. …
- Point of view. …
- Editing for clarity. …
- Editing excess words. …
- Get test readers.
What is a novel synopsis?
The synopsis is a short, lively overview of your novel. It sits alongside the opening of your novel and your agent pitch letter in your pitch package, and it lays out the complete narrative arc of your plot.