SYNOPSIS: The synopsis is our guide to the plot of your book. It should appear after the last page of your story, as part of the same file as the full manuscript. In 750 words or less, give us a complete, concise summary of the action that takes place in your story. Address each of the major plot points, including the end.
- Include your synopsis as part of your full manuscript. It should appear after the last page of the story. It must not be longer than 750 words.
- Do not make your synopsis mysterious. Avoid treating the synopsis as a blurb that tries to hook us into wanting more. Instead of telling us that the story has twists, turns, or a surprise ending, write an overview of the whole story—beginning, middle, and end.
- Do not include an outline, series of short chapter summaries, or list of principal characters. These should be made clear in the body of the synopsis.
- Present your story with clarity and style. Your synopsis should give us a clear sense of your writing ability. Spend some time on it.
- Make sure that your grammar, spelling, punctuation, and page layout are professional and error-free. (When in doubt, refer to our style sheet or The Chicago Manual of Style.) If your synopsis is poorly written or contains grammatical/mechanical errors, we will assume your manuscript is the same way and will not review it.
- Do not include your name on any part of the synopsis.
