on The Write Life:
If you plan to publish a work of fiction or non-fiction, writing a synopsis that summarizes the scope of your manuscript is inevitable.
Consider the typical submission process: First you write a query letter to agents or editors, and hopefully someone requests sample chapters along with a synopsis. Usually only after this step will authors be asked to submit the full manuscript.
What is a synopsis?
Before we dive deep, let’s first define synopsis.
Simply put, a synopsis is a summary of your fiction or nonfiction project.
A synopsis will
- have a beginning, middle and end
- leave no plot questions unanswered
- reflect the manuscript genre and tone
- demonstrate your voice
That may seem like a lot to accomplish within a few pages, but you’re not reinventing the wheel, here.
Chris The Story Reading Ape's Blog 