How Do I Write An Essay Synopsis?
Writing a synopsis for an essay or any other piece of writing is simply about determining the most significant parts of a piece of writing and using this information to give a brief summary. In your synopsis, you want to identify the most important facts, as well as little details, which will give your reader a clear sense of the essay. The length of your synopsis depends entirely on the topic of your synopsis. It may range from a one-paragraph overview to a few pages in length.
- A synopsis states your main line of argument, and depending on the discipline (compare the Political Science and History examples below), alludes to the important reasons for adopting that line of argument and your major conclusion/s.
Writing guide of a synopsis: Point by point
Introduce the main characters and their motivations.
- Identify what characters drive the story, even if in the essay it is strictly in the mind of the narrator.
- Write in active voice avoiding passive and dull language.
- Then demonstrate how the characters drive the essay.
Illustrate the setting to give visuals for the reader
- Determine the time and place the essay takes place.
- These types of cues will give readers a better sense of the feel of the essay, as well as permit them to create a picture in their heads.
Establish the main themes of the essay.
- What is the message of author? Are there recurring dialogue, images, or situations that act as symbolism in the essay for the overarching meaning behind the essay? If so, identify this information and work it into your synopsis.
Structure the plot.
- Even if the essay is completely about one narrator has thought about athing, chances are there is a framework for the essay.
- Structuring this in your pre-writing and including it in your essay explains the overall action in the essay.
Understand your audience to make your synopsis as effective as possible.
- If you are writing this synopsis with a purpose of encouraging readers to the original essay, make sure you not to give away the ending or too many details. Instead, pique their interest and leave them wanting more.
- If you are writing to demonstrate your understanding, include all the information which illustrates you have properly understood the essay.