LESSON VIII.
Synopsis.
Write the Synopsis or outline of your story from your idea. The Synopsis should be as brief as possible; at the same time giving the reader a clear idea of your play. The Synopsis sells or rejects your play, so by all means make it attractive and catchy.
In writing the Synopsis, limit yourself to about 250 words, per reel, as a maximum, for the average Scenario Editor does not want to take the time to read a long drawn-out Synopsis, which could be better understood if condensed into fewer words. Arrange your Synopsis into short sentences, in simple language, expressive, crisp and to the point. Mention only the VITAL parts of your story and make every sentence tell something. Introduce only the important characters in your Synopsis, and do not give them more than one name when referring to them, for instance: do not mention Martha Stone in one sentence and then call her Miss Stone in another paragraph. The Reader is liable to become confused and get the names mixed.
Some people are able to write a better Synopsis if they wait till after they have written the Scenario. This is a good way for beginners to do, as all the important point of the story can then be put into the Synopsis.