How to Write a Book Synopsis

Want your book noticed? Start with a killer synopsis!

It's your first impression on readers, agents, and publishers. And it can be the difference between getting published… or not. A good synopsis does more than just summarize your story. It makes readers want to read it.

What’s a book synopsis, anyway?

Think of it as a mini-trailer for your book. It’s a short, sweet summary that gives people a taste of your story. You’ll tell them about the plot, the main characters, and what your book is all about.

Why is it so important?

Let’s put it this way: a good synopsis is like a magic key that unlocks a lot of doors.

• It grabs readers’ attention. A good synopsis is like a hook – it draws readers in and makes them want to learn more.
• It impresses agents and publishers. They use synopses to quickly figure out if your story is good and if people will buy it. A great synopsis will make yours stand out.
• It helps you get clear on your story. Writing a synopsis can actually help you understand your story better. It’s like creating a roadmap for your writing.
• It’s a powerful marketing tool. You can use it for things like book descriptions, your website, and social media posts.

What makes a great book synopsis?

1. Start with a bang! Your first sentence needs to be amazing. Make it interesting, relevant to your story, and make people want to read more. Think about:
• A cool image or metaphor
• A question that makes people curious
• A shocking surprise
• Talking directly to the reader
2. Write a logline – it’s like the elevator pitch for your story. This is one sentence that summarizes your whole story. It’s about the main conflict and what’s at stake. Here’s how to make it awesome:
• Focus on what the main character wants and what’s stopping them.
• Use strong verbs and active voice.
• Keep it short and sweet!
3. Introduce your main characters and setting. Don’t spend too much time describing them, but give people an idea of who they are and why they’re important. And mention where the story takes place and how it’s important.
4. Build up the tension! Talk about the main challenges your character faces. Don’t tell everything – leave some mystery for the reader.
5. Describe the climax – the most exciting part of the story! This is where your character faces their biggest challenge. Make it clear what’s at stake and what happens.
6. Summarize how the story ends. Don’t give away all the details. You want to leave people wanting more!
7. Mention the themes. What’s your book really about? Are there any important messages or ideas that run through your story?

Tips for writing a synopsis that shines:

• Write in third person. Even if your book is in first person, use “he,” “she,” or “they” in your synopsis.
• Use active voice. Make your writing clear and engaging.
• Keep it short and sweet. A traditional synopsis is around 250-300 words. A short synopsis is about 150 words.
• Don’t give away the ending! Keep the mystery and intrigue.
• Use vivid language. Help people imagine your story with descriptive words.
• Double-check for errors. Make sure your synopsis is free of typos and grammar mistakes.
• Get feedback. Ask friends, family, or other writers for their opinions.

Different types of synopses:

There are different types of synopses, each serving a different purpose.

• Traditional Synopsis: The longer, more detailed version. This is what you’d use for agents, publishers, and book reviews.
• Short Synopsis: A quick and to-the-point summary. Use this for book descriptions online, on social media, and in bookstores.
• Query Letter Synopsis: This is a short synopsis used in a query letter to a literary agent. It’s only 50-100 words long and should be tailored to the agent’s interests.

The final word

A great synopsis can make all the difference in getting your book noticed. Use these tips and practice your writing to create a synopsis that’s a masterpiece!