Publishing Tip: One-Page Synopsis
A reader asks: do agents ever ask to see it?
Other writers report that the query letter and sample pages are much more important than the one-page synopsis I am wondering how often you’ve been asked to provide one . Thanks for any guidance.
Alle sez:
The one-page synopsis is critical. When submitting through a platform such as Query Tracker, there is a box asking for a synopsis of a word count that equaled my one-page.
Certainly, when I sent an initial query directly to an agent’s office, the common requirement was a cover letter and three chapters (or about 50 pages). However, that was not unilateral. Additionally, when asked for the full manuscript, it was all but unilateral that the agent wanted included a one or two-page synopsis. That sort of request is not one you want to respond to with, “Give me a week.” You want to have all your our submission materials lined up and ready to go before you begin your agents search.
Without meaning to overwhelm you: I did best to have on hand:
one-page: single-spaced in a 12-point font of a standard type such as Times New Roman, with one-inch margins
two-page: double spaced in a 12-point font of a standard type such as Times New Roman, with one-inch margins
single paragraph: four to six short sentences that is part of your cover/query letter.
Don't worry so much about the chapter-by-chapter outline. Get that first batch of five or ten submissions out there. While waiting for your responses, research five to ten more agents. Then get your chapter-by-chapter outline together. I was only asked for once!
I agree. A one-page synopsis is also a great way to get started thinking about book marketing, which can never start too early. Knowing what the key parts of your story are, and what can be left out. I teach book pitching and find both those tools indispensable for authors.