How to Write a Synopsis for Literary Agents

Writing a novel synopsis for a literary agent is challenging for many budding novelists.

One would think that, after writing a complete first draft of a novel, writing a synopsis for a literary agent would be easy. However, for many budding novelists, this is far from the case. Writing a novel synopsis can be an intimidating process if you've never written one before. It can be difficult to break the narrative of a long novel down into a few pages.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Printer
• Paper

Instructions

Instructions

1. Start with the basic information. In the top left-hand corner of the page, using single-space, include the title, the novel's category, and your byline. Switch to double-spacing and drop down about 10-12 spaces.

2. Hook the reader. In the first paragraph, summarize the story's premise or central conflict in a catchy way. There are a number of strategies for doing this. You could write a simple statement about the central conflict or you could introduce the main character or the setting and elaborate on how this relates to the central conflict. You may also phrase the hook as a question. For example, if your novel is about a teenage boy who discovers his father is an alien, you might pose the question, "What would you do if you discovered the father you worshiped was a creature from outer space?

3. Summarize the story. Include the setting, characters and all of the major plot points from beginning to end. The plot elements should be revealed in a linear fashion and your writing should embody the style and overall tone of the novel. For example, if a particular scene is funny in the novel, the condensed version of it should be just as funny in the synopsis.

4. Proofread the synopsis. Go back and make certain your synopsis is mistake-free and as polished as possible. Correct any spelling or grammatical errors.

Tips & Warnings

• Read several book jackets to get a feel for what hooks a reader. The beginning of your synopsis should read like good book jacket copy. Remember, whatever hooks you as a reader will likely hook others.

• Try to keep your synopsis under six pages. Although some agents may prefer a longer synopsis, as a rule of thumb most do not.

• Write in the present tense.

• Write in third-person.

• Use transitions.

• Do not include dialog or copy long passages from your novel.

• Do not address the agent or add commentary in your synopsis.

References

• Writing a Novel Synopsis
• How to Write a Synopsis

Resources

• "2010 Guide to Literary Agents"; Chuck Sambuchino; Writer's Digest Books; 2009