Mr. Epes Winthrop Sargent has well epitomized some important principles in synopsis writing when—in The Writer's Monthly for April, 1918—he says that "the good synopsis:
"Starts with a 'punch' fact.
"Tells the story clearly in full detail as to facts, with as few words as possible.
"Identifies as fully as possible all the leading characters at their first introduction.
"Fully establishes minor personages as they enter the story.
"Gives all of the facts required by the staff writer in the construction of a continuity.
"Presents these facts fluently and interestingly, with some suggestion of literary charm, but without the use of florid phrase or elaborate descriptive writing.
"Presents facts in their logical order, but not necessarily in the exact order of their happening.
"Is as brief as is consistent with clearness of statement, but may run 5,000 words or more if fewer words will not permit the story to be clearly told."
