Free screenwriting tool
Story Synopsis Generator
A story synopsis is a short summary of your whole plot, ending included, written in present tense. Drop your screenplay or paste your story here and this free synopsis generator writes two versions: one paragraph for query letters and forms, and one page for managers, contests and fellowships.
Written and reviewed by ScriptLix Editorial
In short
A synopsis is a present tense summary of the whole story, ending included. Drop your screenplay or paste your story and this free synopsis generator writes a one paragraph version for queries and a one page version for managers and contests.
Written by AI, so treat it as a first draft. Free, no signup, up to 15 runs a day. We do not keep what you type.
How to use it
- 1
Drop your script, PDF, Final Draft, Fountain, Word or text, or paste your story or treatment.
- 2
Get a one paragraph synopsis and a one page synopsis in a few seconds.
- 3
Copy either one or download both as a text file, then edit it in your own voice.
Which synopsis length do you need?
| Version | Length | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| Logline | 1 sentence, 25 to 45 words | Pitches, query subject lines, contest forms |
| Short synopsis | 1 paragraph, under 120 words | Query letters, festival and contest entries |
| One page synopsis | 3 to 6 paragraphs, about 1 page | Managers, producers, fellowships |
| Treatment | 3 to 15 pages | Development, before or instead of a draft |
How do you write a synopsis for a screenplay?
Tell the story in order, in present tense, in third person. Introduce the main character with their first name in caps the first time, then cover the setup, the turning points and the ending. Leave out subplots unless they change the main plot, and leave out dialogue entirely.
The single biggest mistake is hiding the ending. A synopsis is a tool for people deciding whether to read, and they need to know the story works all the way through. Give away the twist.
What does the generator read?
For a script file, it reads the parsed text of your screenplay, up to roughly the first 30 pages for long scripts. For pasted text it reads up to 20,000 characters, about 3,500 words. If your script is longer, the one page version will cover what it read and say so, and you can paste a summary of the rest.
The AI is told to use only what is in your material and never to invent an ending. Still, read it closely. A synopsis has to sound like you, and the generator’s job is to get you past the blank page.
Is my script stored?
No. Your script is read once to write the synopsis and is not saved by us. Nothing you paste is used to train anything on our side.
What should a screenplay synopsis include?
The protagonist and what they want, the event that starts the story, the main turning points, the climax and the ending. Add the antagonist and one or two other characters only if the story cannot be followed without them.
Leave out subplots, minor characters and individual scenes unless they change the direction of the main story. A synopsis is about what happens and why it matters, not about how each scene plays.
What are the most common synopsis mistakes?
Listing scenes in order instead of telling a story is the most common. First this happens, then that, then this reads like an outline and loses the reader. Connect events with cause: because she lies to the police, her brother is arrested.
Others: hiding the ending to create mystery, naming too many characters, and describing the theme instead of showing it through events. Readers are judging the shape of the story, so give them all of it.
How is a synopsis different from a treatment?
A synopsis tells a reader what happens, usually in a page or less. A treatment is longer and tries to give the feel of the film as well as the events, with more texture, tone and sometimes key scenes.
If a contest or fellowship asks for a synopsis, keep it short and plain. If a producer asks for a treatment, use the film treatment template.
Questions writers ask
What is a story synopsis generator?
A tool that summarises your screenplay or story into a short synopsis. This one writes a one paragraph and a one page version from a script file or pasted text.
How long should a screenplay synopsis be?
A short synopsis is one paragraph, under about 120 words. A full synopsis is usually one page. Check what each contest or company asks for.
Should a synopsis reveal the ending?
Yes. Always include the ending. Readers use the synopsis to judge the whole story.
What is the difference between a synopsis and a logline?
A logline is one sentence that sets up the premise. A synopsis tells the whole story, ending included, in a paragraph or a page.
Is the synopsis generator free?
Yes, no signup, up to 15 AI runs a day.
Do I need a synopsis to submit a screenplay?
Sometimes. Some contests, fellowships and producers ask for one alongside the script or a logline. Check each submission’s guidelines.
Should a synopsis be written in present tense?
Yes. Like a screenplay and a treatment, a synopsis describes the story as it happens, in present tense and third person.
How many characters should a synopsis name?
Only the few who drive the story, often three or four. Describe anyone else by role so the reader can follow the main line.