Synopsis Length - Writers Forum

Revolution · 04-28-2005, 01:08 AM

If an agent has requested a synopsis, but has not specified as to the length, what is a good length for it to be? I have heard one page for every 10k words, but I don't want it to be to long if that's not what they're expecting.
The novel in question is about 170k words long, and 17 pages seems excessive.
This agency does not have a website. Should I call the agency and inquire about what they would prefer or just try to make it as short as possible while expressing the main plot?

Peter Thomas · 04-28-2005, 02:38 AM

I'd try and aim to do both.

Start by giving them a call. As long as you make it sound like you're doing them a favour by asking what they want, then they will be more than happy to tell you, and will probably prove to be slightly more leniant about it all.

If you don't get an answer for whatever reason, then write your synopsis assuming that 17 pages IS too much (I certainly think you could do it in much less). I - personally - would aim for about 5 pages max, however that is for my style and my plot characteristics. If yours is a whole lot more complicated, then undoubtedly you'll need more.

veinglory · 04-28-2005, 07:21 AM

There are two distinct types of synopsis, short and long. For a 'cold call' I would suggest using the short form which is only 500-1000 words in total.

Revolution · 04-28-2005, 02:05 PM

I went ahead and gave the agent a call this morning. She said that it was really up to me, whatever I thought, from 3 to 10 pages. I'm going to try to keep it at around 4 or 5, I think.

Thank you guys for your advice.