SYNOPIS Urgent help needed

[Vertigo4KimNovak]

I am actually rewrite my synopsis because I have to send it to someone. I wonder if I must explain in the synopsis the whole story, I mean the main points or must I keep secret few things like who the killer is, what the twist is ...

[dpaterso]

I believe the synopsis should be the entire story in condensed form, including plot twists, major revelations and full resolution. That's how I've been writing 'em anyway. Stopping right after you say "Finally, everyone gathers in the library to learn who murdered Professor Smith" probably isn't a good idea.

-Derek

[nickj]

Derek's right, the synopsis has to tell the whole story. You don't have room to set up the twists so they won't have the same punch as the screenplay, but try to include at least three majorly cool things about the story so they'll want to read the script. Think in terms of the synopsis reader explaining to her boss what's cool (i.e. fresh, different) about your story. What do you want them to say about it?

[RatWriter]

Nickj is right about Derek being right.

Think of it as a book report for your teacher. Nothing is left out. The detail is based on the length requested.

I start with a 3 paragragh synopsis. I then expand each paragragh into a page. I now have a 1-page and a 3-page synopsis to offer.