How to Write a Synopsis for Screenwriters

How to Write a Synopsis for Screenwriters

Writing a Screenplay Summary for Submitting to Film Producers

Completing a full-length screenplay is not the end. Some film producers, agents and publishers insist upon a submission package. Before even reading the script, they might insist upon any or all of the following items, namely:

•           A covering letter with the writer’s contact details

•           A tagline of the movie

•           A synopsis of the film

•           A film treatment

•           A list detailing the main characters

•           Sometimes even a personal statement

Outline of a Film

A synopsis is a brief plot breakdown of a story. This must be no longer than one to two pages. Where a tagline summarises the story in one sentence, and a film treatment shows a scene-by-scene outline of a film, the synopsis lies somewhere in between and is frequently requested within a submission package.

Summarising the Story of a Script

Some filmmakers and agents will request the synopsis before even looking at the script. If the synopsis does not stand up, the agent may send it back with a rejection letter. For this reason, the synopsis can be crucial for the writer. Like the opening of a screenplay, it is like a shop window for agents to look at. If it does not entice, the screenplay will get no further in the submission process.

Guidelines to Writing a Good Plot Summary

In writing a synopsis, the following guidelines should be followed:

•           At the top of the synopsis page, state that it is a “synopsis.” State the screenplay’s title and genre. The writer’s details should be given at the bottom of the page.

•           Give an idea of the plot setting, the time and the place and the problem. This is known as Act 1 of the three-act structure of storytelling.

•           Give a brief description of the main characters as they appear in the story.

•           Begin the synopsis at the beginning of the story and tell it in the same order as the screenplay. The three-act structure of the plot must be reflected within the synopsis.

•           Scenes that propel the story, including climatic scenes, known as Act 2.

•           No cliffhangers are allowed. The story’s ending must be revealed in order that the agent or filmmaker can see that the writer has provided a satisfactory resolution. The resolution is known as Act 3.

•           Synopses are often 250 words long. If the guidelines ask for this, stick to it. If not, complete one page, at the most two.

•           Use Times New Roman or Arial, unless otherwise requested. Use single line spacing and breaks between paragraphs within standard margins.

•           Tell the story in the present tense and in the third person.

•           When telling the story, do not include dialogue. Just tell the story as it is in a formal way.