by DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills

Creating a powerful synopsis can be daunting if not downright scary. I hear you moaning! Why do I need a synopsis?

If you’re having a tough time getting motivated to pen a synopsis, memorize this: A writer creates a brief summary or outline of a book project to generate interest by an agent or editor to request more great writing. Writers, this is your shining moment to entice the right person to love your manuscript.

Now that you’re genuinely determined, here are 7 Steps to Create a Powerful Synopsis.

1. Read through the manuscript and jot down one sentence per scene or chapter describing what it’s about.
2. Read again and slash to the core of the writing project. 
3. Check the agent’s or publisher’s guidelines. Do they require a single or double-spaced synopsis? A one-page or three-page? Paragraph indentions or block format?
4. Write in active voice, third person.
5. Use powerful verbs and nouns.
6. Incorporate correct grammar and punctuation.
7. Ensure the synopsis flows with each chapter or scene.

Particulars for Fiction projects

List POV character(s)

Protagonist’s name, role, problem, and goal in the story along with brief backstory. POV characters can be multiples.

Antagonist’s name, role, problem, and goal in story along with brief backstory.

Author’s Passion

Emotional Jolt

Setting

Spiritual Journey – if applicable

Romantic Journey – if applicable

Quote – a powerful line of dialogue from story

The storyline is written in chronological order. Include the protagonist’s obstacles, inner and outer turmoil, climax, and resolution of an exciting journey.

Particulars for Nonfiction Projects

Include an overview of the book project. How will the reader’s life be easier, more satisfying, enhanced, or improved? What is the question or information desperately needed by the reader?

Write chapter by chapter paragraphs, 2 to 3 sentences that cover the topic.

Take a deep breath

While the summary may read as sterile, even boring, don’t neglect your passion for the project. Remember your grandmother’s girdle? It was designed to hold in the excess so what was visible looked amazing.

Tie the synopsis together with a great conclusion. This is a package with many ribbons that must weave together for clarity and meaning.

What tips do you have for creating a powerful synopsis?

DiAnn Mills is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an adventure. Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists; won two Christy Awards; and been finalists for the RITA, Daphne Du Maurier, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol award contests. Library Journal presented her with a Best Books 2014: Genre Fiction award in the Christian Fiction category for Firewall.

DiAnn is a founding board member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, a member of Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Suspense Sister, and International Thriller Writers. She is co-director of The Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference and The Author Roadmap with social media specialist Edie Melson. She teaches writing workshops around the country. DiAnn is active online and would love to connect with readers on any of the social media platforms listed at www.diannmills.com.