I’ve been hammering away at the synopsis for my own novel, Moonshadow’s Guardian, for about a week now and while I’m proud of what it looks like now this has been an incredibly painful process. And, like any part of writing I struggle with, I’ve done a lot of research on how to write a good synopsis for your novel.
Save some time learning how to write the best synopsis possible by reading these articles:
1. Back to Basics: Write a Novel Synopsis
This article by Jane Friedman explains what a synopsis is and what it needs to accomplish. It goes into great detail about how to create a successful synopsis.
2. How to Write a Synopsis When You Have Lots of Characters in Your Story
The bigger your cast of characters the more difficult it is to write a synopsis that properly conveys your story. This article provides specific tips, tricks and examples of how you can make your synopsis great even if you have many different characters.
3. How to Write a Book Synopsis
Literary agent Carly Watters offers a five step process to create a successful synopsis.
This article includes a synopsis checklist and a variety of tips.
5. How to Write a 1-Page Synopsis
Most publishers want a synopsis between two and four pages but some specifically request a one page synopsis. This article can help you create one.
6. Clear the Dread From the Dreaded Synopsis
Most writers hate writing their synopsis but with the help from this article you won’t have to(much).
This article explains the differences between a fiction synopsis and a non-fiction synopsis.
8. Do, Don’ts and Neverminds: Writing a Snazzy Synopsis
Presented by Margaret Moore, this article includes an extensive list of what a synopsis should contain and a checklist for a great synopsis.
9. How to Write a Synopsis Without Losing Your Mind
This article includes detailed advice on how to format your synopsis as well as the usual explanation of what a synopsis is and should include.
10. How to Write a Synopsis With Multiple Protagonists
Does your novel have multiple protagonists? This article will help you figure out how to format your synopsis to show all their stories.
Have you ever written a synopsis? Tell me what it was like in the comments section below!