How to Write a Synopsis of a Novel

A synopsis is drafted either before you start writing your novel or after you have completed it. The problem with drafting the synopsis before the novel is finished, is that you will have to edit it so that it is in line with the story. It is for this reason that a majority of writers prefer to draft the synopsis once their book is complete. The following are tips on how to write a synopsis of a novel.

The beginning of your synopsis should start with a story or thematic question which you will still have to circle back to at the end with the answer. This is tip number one on how to write a synopsis of a novel. It is very important that you know what the question of your story is. Ideally, the question should be a hook. Thinking of the thematic question as a high pitch or high concept sentence will help you draft a good synopsis.

It is worth noting that synopses are different depending on the novel that you are writing. The synopsis for a romance novel is different from that of a spy novel. When writing the synopsis of a romance novel, you only include the external plot if it directly affects the hero/heroine’s emotional arc.

However, regardless of the novel that you are writing, you ought to only mention the secondary characters in your synopsis if they affect the external and internal conflicts of the main characters. Before you go drafting one, it is important that you research on how to write a synopsis of a novel. This way you will learn how to come up with synopses for different movies.

The final tip on how to write a synopsis of a novel is to use a tone that is similar to what is in your book. Remember that the synopsis is part of your book. Therefore, there should be no disconnection. If your novel has a humorous or poignant tone, you should strive to include statements that reflect this in your synopsis. If you are unsure of how to draft a novel synopsis, research online or talk to an established writer.