How to Write a Book Synopsis for a Publisher

If you’ve written a book and are ready to pitch it to publishers or literary agents, one of the first things you’ll need is a strong book synopsis. This document often makes the difference between your manuscript being requested or passed over. Yet, many writers find it more difficult to condense their book into a few pages than it was to write the entire novel. This article will guide you step-by-step through the process of writing a professional, polished book synopsis that speaks clearly to the publishing industry.

What Is a Book Synopsis?

A book synopsis is a concise, structured summary of your book’s plot, characters, major themes, and resolution. It is written in the third person, present tense, regardless of how your book is narrated, and it gives away the entire plot, including the ending.

Unlike a back-cover blurb or a query letter, which aim to tease the reader and spark curiosity, a synopsis is designed to inform the publisher or agent of the full scope of your story. It shows your ability to craft a coherent narrative, develop characters, build tension, and resolve conflict—all within a tightly organized format.

Why a Synopsis Matters

Publishers and literary agents are flooded with manuscript submissions. They use the synopsis to:

  • Quickly understand what your book is about.
  • Determine if the story fits their publishing goals or catalog.
  • Assess your storytelling and plotting skills.
  • See how character arcs and themes evolve.
  • Spot red flags, like pacing problems or weak endings.

In other words, a compelling synopsis doesn’t just summarize your story—it proves you know how to tell it.

How Long Should a Synopsis Be?

There is no one-size-fits-all word count, but most publishers and agents expect:

  • Short synopsis: 250–500 words (about half a page to one page).
  • Standard synopsis: 600–1000 words (one to two pages, single-spaced).
  • Long synopsis: 1200+ words (only if specifically requested).

Always check the submission guidelines of the publisher or agent you are contacting. If in doubt, aim for one single-spaced page (around 600–800 words), which is considered standard and widely acceptable.

Preparing to Write: Know Your Story Inside Out

Before writing your synopsis, reflect on these essential elements of your story:

  1. Who is your protagonist? What do they want, and what stands in their way?
  2. What is the central conflict? What’s at stake?
  3. What major turning points shape the narrative?
  4. How does the story resolve? What changes for the characters?

Having a clear grasp of your book’s structure will make it easier to write a synopsis that flows logically.

Structure of a Book Synopsis

While every synopsis is different, a good one follows a narrative arc. Here’s a basic structure you can follow:

  1. Introduction

  • Start with the protagonist’s name, age (if relevant), and situation.
  • State the genre and setting early on.
  • Introduce the core premise or inciting incident.

  1. The Main Conflict

  • Describe the central conflict or problem.
  • Highlight the stakes and what the character stands to lose.
  • Mention key antagonists or opposing forces.

  1. Rising Action

  • Outline 2–3 major plot developments or twists.
  • Show how the conflict escalates.
  • Introduce supporting characters only if they are essential to the main arc.

  1. Climax

  • Describe the turning point of the story.
  • Reveal the emotional or physical peak of tension.

  1. Resolution

  • Show how the main conflict is resolved.
  • Explain how the protagonist has changed or grown.
  • Tie up loose ends and clarify the final outcome.

Writing Tips for a Strong Synopsis

Here are some guidelines to ensure your synopsis is polished and professional:

  • Write in third person, present tense (even for first-person novels).
  • Be clear and concise. Avoid flowery language or filler words.
  • Stick to the main plot. Subplots should be mentioned only if they impact the main arc.
  • Use character names sparingly. Focus on 2–3 major characters to avoid confusion.
  • Avoid cliffhangers. You must reveal the ending.
  • Capture your voice. While the tone should be professional, it should still reflect the flavor of your writing.
  • Don’t editorialize. Avoid saying things like “this is a thrilling twist” or “you won’t believe what happens next.” Let the story speak for itself.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Writing a synopsis is tricky, and there are several pitfalls to be aware of:

  • Too much detail. You don’t need to summarize every chapter.
  • Too vague. Don’t dance around major events or avoid naming outcomes.
  • Poor organization. A synopsis should follow your story’s narrative arc.
  • Unclear stakes. Make sure it’s evident what the protagonist wants and what’s at risk.
  • Leaving out the ending. This is one of the biggest red flags to publishers—always reveal how the story concludes.

Example Snippet of a Book Synopsis

Here’s a brief example of how a synopsis might begin:

Sixteen-year-old Emma Cross has one goal: escape the repressive life of her rural hometown. But when her brother disappears on the eve of her departure, Emma’s plans unravel. As she uncovers dark secrets about her family’s past, Emma is pulled into a web of betrayal that spans generations. Forced to choose between protecting her loved ones and chasing freedom, Emma must confront the truth—or risk losing everything.

This introduction sets up the protagonist, the conflict, the stakes, and the tone of the book—all in just a few lines.

Formatting Your Synopsis

Presentation matters. Follow these standard formatting tips:

  • Use a legible font like Times New Roman or Arial, 12-point size.
  • Use single spacing with a blank line between paragraphs.
  • Include your name, book title, genre, and word count at the top.
  • Label the document clearly: “Synopsis – [Your Book Title].”

Consistency and professionalism in formatting show that you take the submission process seriously.

Consider Professional Support: Editing, Publishing, and Writing Services

Writing a synopsis is often harder than it looks, especially when you’re deeply connected to your manuscript. If you find yourself stuck, unsure, or overwhelmed, consider seeking support. There are several ways professionals can help:

Why You Might Want Help:

  • You’re too close to the material and struggle to be objective.
  • You want a fresh perspective to identify key plot elements.
  • You’re unfamiliar with the expectations of publishers and agents.

What Support Options Can Offer:

  • Developmental editors can help you pinpoint your story’s core elements.
  • Writing coaches can guide you in summarizing complex narratives clearly.
  • Professional synopsis writers can shape your draft into a compelling summary without altering your voice.
  • Publishing consultants can help tailor your synopsis to specific agents or submission packages.

Sometimes, even just having someone review your draft can provide insights you hadn’t considered. Investing in that support can boost your chances of getting noticed in a competitive market.

Final Checklist Before You Submit

Before sending your synopsis off with your manuscript or query letter, ask yourself:

✔ Have I revealed the full plot, including the ending?

✔ Is the synopsis written in third-person, present tense?

✔ Is the length appropriate for the submission guidelines?

✔ Are the character motivations and stakes clearly expressed?

✔ Is the document free of typos and grammatical errors?

Taking the time to polish your synopsis can be the final step that helps you stand out to a publisher.

Conclusion

Writing a synopsis isn’t just a formality—it’s a key component of your publishing journey. It gives decision-makers the information they need to evaluate your manuscript quickly and professionally. By focusing on clarity, structure, and the essence of your story, you can create a synopsis that captures the heart of your novel and increases your chances of publication. And when in doubt, don’t hesitate to seek professional support—it could make all the difference.