Synopsis length?

MaLanie1971 said:

Does anyone know if there is a standard word count for a synopsis?

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To the best of my knowledge, there really isn't a set standard. Some agents will specify a length in their submission guidelines and these sometimes differ.

Nathan Bransford recommends 2-3 pages double spaced (and I think not more than 5). That's what I'll probably aim for.

Many agents ask for a one page synopsis (single space, no breaks between paragraphs). It's rare to see people ask for longer than five. I second the two-three double spaced pager.

Though I am still preparing my synopsis, I heard that 500-1000 words is a good guideline, so that's what I'm sticking to (mine is currently sitting at 809 words). That should roughly fit into the 2-3 pages recommendations.

Caveat: I'm not published, so I wouldn't call myself an expert on this.

Here are two threads in the share your work forum with detailed info on synopsis length from a few different perspectives:

http://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/showthread.php?t=84990

http://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/showthread.php?t=135244

If you haven't signed into the share your work forum yet, you will need the password - whcih is "vista" - a box will pop up for the password if you need to enter it.

The stickie threads in various forums really have a wealth of info - explore what is there.

~suki