Agents often ask for a one-page or two-page synopsis to accompany your query letter and sample chapters. It sounds simple, but summarising a whole novel such as your characters, arcs, twists and emotional beats in such few words can feel harder than writing the book itself.

A strong synopsis does two things:

1. Proves you can tell a story clearly. Agents want to see you understand your plot and structure.
2. Shows them the book works. A compelling synopsis demonstrates that your story builds logically, ends satisfyingly and will deliver on its promise.

If your synopsis rambles, confuses, or feels flat, it can sink your submission even if your writing is brilliant. That’s why learning to write one well is so crucial.

How to use the free synopsis resource pack

Our pack includes everything you need to build a professional, polished synopsis whether you’re crafting it from scratch or editing a finished draft.

• Step-by-step guide: Break your story down with clear tips. Try this too: Plotting Worksheet for mapping your key story beats.
• Tips + examples: Each tip comes with real examples so you can see exactly how the pros do it. See also: Query Letter & Synopsis Worksheet
• End-of-pack checklist: A quick once-over to make sure your synopsis is sharp, clear and ready to send. Polish with: Self-Editing Pyramid
• Flexible use: Draft as many versions as you like. One to guide your writing, another to wow agents. Need ideas? Idea Generator Worksheet can spark new inspiration.

Common synopsis mistakes (and how to fix them)

Most writers make the same small mistakes and they’re easy to fix once you know what to look for.

1. Including too much detail
   You don’t need to describe every scene or character. Focus on your main plot, the central conflict and how it resolves. If it doesn’t drive the story forward, it can go.
2. Forgetting the emotion
   A synopsis isn’t just a summary, it’s a tiny window into your story’s soul. Make them feel the stakes, the heartbreak, the triumph… let them feel it all.
3. Hiding the ending
   Agents don’t want suspense here, they want clarity. Always reveal the ending so they can see your plot works from start to finish.
4. Writing it too soon
   It’s tempting to draft a synopsis before your story’s finished, but the best ones come once you truly understand your narrative arc. (Our Plotting Worksheet can help you get there!)

The Synopsis Resource Pack walks you through each of these pitfalls with clear examples and a checklist, so you can confidently craft a synopsis that’s polished and ready to send.

Why you’ll love this resource

Writing a synopsis isn’t just about ticking a box for agents. It’s about understanding your story. When you can explain your book simply, you understand what truly drives it.

This pack helps you:

• Save hours of second guessing
• Write with confidence and clarity
• Present yourself like a professional

Many writers tell us that once they’ve completed the pack, they finally see the core of their story and their submission packages instantly improve.

Ready to start?

You’ve poured your heart into your novel. So now what? It’s time to show agents what your story’s really made of.

Download your free Synopsis Resource Pack today and take the first step towards a submission package you can be proud of.