#writetip The dreaded synopsis has found its way to the top of my to-do list.
How do you take 82,000 words and summarize them in to 500 to 1000 words?
Sweat it out, of course.
As I’ve said before, I love my spreadsheets and don’t know how anyone can write a novel without one. Well, here is my next use.
One column of my spreadsheet has a name for each scene. The name represents what happens in this scene.
To create my synopsis, first I’m look for turning points in the novel. Luckily, I already have this in the spreadsheet. The turning points are events that take the story in a new direction.
Next, I write each scene name on a paper. I cross out anything that doesn’t need to be in the synopsis. Once I do this four or five time, I write out a one line description of the scene. Now I know if I’m anywhere near the right word count. If not, I keep cutting.
I follow some simple guidelines:
– Use protagonists POV
– Don’t include questions
– Use present tense
– Write in the same voice as your novel
– Don’t turn the synopsis into a list
– Include the ending
If the first line of your novel is great, and I hope it is, why not use that as your opening line of your synopsis?
If you have any tips for writing a synopsis, I’d love to hear them.
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Inspirations is another handy tool. It’s software that allows the use of visuals for setting or character descriptions. It also works with a variety of shapes to fit around text. A timeline can be created at the top or bottom of the page. It often ends up looking like a collage. Comes in handy for remembering all of the `bits’ that go into a story.
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Thanks Garry, I’ll have to check out Inspirations. I love having new tools to try out.
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Thanks Kristina, love you ideas. I have Scrivner (sp) which sounds like it works simular to your spread sheet, still trying to get a grip on it.
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The synopsis is your enemy… only to be out-enemied by the dreaded query, or worse, the terrible log-line. They should all be banned!
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I’ve never used Scrivner. I downloaded a trial copy and then decided I didn’t want to take the time to learn it. I’ve been using excel for years and it’s too easy for me.
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I’m struggling with my synopsis and I’d like to try a spread sheet. However, I’m such a visual person, I need a photo of how this would look. Do you have a excel synopsis photo you’d be willing to share?
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Hi Nancy, I’d be happy to share. I’ll do that tomorrow and send it to you. I hope it helps.
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Thanks. I’ll let you know when I receive it:)
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Hi Nancy, I sent you an email. Hope it helps.
Kristina
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