Writing a Good Plot Synopsis

In a plot synopsis, you typically need

to tell your reader the following:

Conflict: In a sentence or two, describe the
energy that kick-starts the story

Rising Action: Use a couple of examples of
eventscar chases, explosions, fights, tense
encounters, etc.that help raise the energy
level of the story

Conclusion: What action resolves the
conflict?




Conflict
What conflict or disagreement started the
story movingstate in a sentence or two what
forces are in opposition.

Example:
After being falsely accused and convicted of
murdering his wife, Dr. Richard Kimble
manages to escape when the train he is
riding derails, allowing him to flee.


Rising Action

How is the action of the film moved along or
accelerated? One or two examples is
sufficient here.

Examples:
While on the run and trying to clear his name, Kimble
seeks out sympathetic friends though is all the time
pursued by U.S. Marshal Sam Gerard. The disgraced
doctor is even chased and forced to leap from a dam
to avoid capture.
Conclusion / Resolution
A sentence or two about HOW the conflict is
resolved will suffice here:

Example:
After tracking down the elusive one-armed
man he believes to be the real killer, Kimble is
brought face to face with his pursuer Gerard
and the man who REALLY brought about his
wifes death.
Some extra tips
With certain genres (i.e. suspense or horror,) DONT reveal TOO MUCH
when describing the conclusion.

Avoid focusing on trivial details. YOU may find the weaponry fascinating, a
particular line of dialogue wildly funny or the means via which the hero
exploded the evil creatures head VERY cool, but its probably NOT
essential data for a synopsis.

Phrases like I thought this movie was cool or this movie was boring
DONT BELONG in a synopsis. Rememberyoure not REVIEWING the
filmyoure SUMMARIZING it. Second, DONT begin a synopsis by saying
In this movie. Its redundant and a waste of words.

Phrase actions in the PRESENT TENSE. This is the convention, even if it
doesnt make sense.

Correct: Kimble works in a hospital to gain access to medical records.
Incorrect: Kimble worked in a hospital to gain access to medical records.