Some editors or agents ask for a chapter-by-chapter synopsis. Not all of them do, so don’t automatically assume you need one. However, it’s the easiest type of synopsis to write, in my opinion. It’s simply a list of each chapter number, and then a couple sentences describing what happens in the chapter. Any significant spiritual or internal conflicts should be included, as well as major plot points, red herrings, symbolism, etc. The chapter-by-chapter synopsis will take the reader on a shortened version of the same ride you’ll give your novel reader, so include the dead ends and frustrations and obstacles that beset your characters. Each major character should be named, and minor characters can also be named if they have a significant impact on the storyline. However, peripheral characters shouldn’t be named in a chapter-by-chapter synopsis. I usually write a chapter-by-chapter synopsis first, then cut that down to a 1-2 page synopsis which I use for my proposals. Most proposals call f...
Camy,
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing this link. I hadn't heard the term "episodic writing," so this information was something I definitely needed to add to my body of knowledge on craft. I can see how, especially in my earliest manuscripts, I was guilty of producing episodic writing. Now that I've read this excellent post, I'll be better able to spot that particular weakness should it crop up in my work--and to eliminate it.
Hi Camy, and thanks. This is interesting and timely--several ladies and I recently had a discussion regarding plot. After reading the article, at least two of us have questions regarding how much control secondary characters can have in a storyline.
ReplyDeleteThanks, guys! I'm glad to know this article helped you as much as it helped me.
ReplyDeleteCamy
Great article! :) Wow, I haven't stopped by for a while, and need to catch up. I need to check the archives...
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