Writing a Good Plot

Synopsis

In a plot synopsis, you typically

need to tell your reader the
following:
Conflict: In a sentence or two, describe
the energy that kick-starts the story
Rising Action: Use a couple of
examples of eventscar chases,
explosions, fights, tense encounters,
etc.that help raise the energy level of
the story
Conclusion: What action resolves the
conflict?

Conflict
What conflict or disagreement started the
story movingstate in a sentence or two
what forces are in opposition.

Example:
After being falsely accused and convicted
of murdering his wife, Dr. Richard Kimble
manages to escape when the train he is
riding derails, allowing him to flee.

Rising Action
How is the action of the film moved along
or accelerated? One or two examples is
sufficient here.

Examples:
While on the run and trying to clear his name,
Kimble seeks out sympathetic friends though is
all the time pursued by U.S. Marshal Sam
Gerard. The disgraced doctor is even chased and
forced to leap from a dam to avoid capture.

Conclusion / Resolution
A sentence or two about HOW the
conflict is resolved will suffice here:

Example:
After tracking down the elusive onearmed man he believes to be the real
killer, Kimble is brought face to face with
his pursuer Gerard and the man who
REALLY brought about his wifes death.

Some extra tips

With certain genres (i.e. suspense or horror,) DONT reveal TOO MUCH when
describing the conclusion.
Avoid focusing on trivial details. YOU may find the weaponry fascinating, a
particular line of dialogue wildly funny or the means via which the hero
exploded the evil creatures head VERY cool, but its probably NOT essential
data for a synopsis.
Phrases like I thought this movie was cool or this movie was boring DONT
BELONG in a synopsis. Rememberyoure not REVIEWING the filmyoure
SUMMARIZING it. Second, DONT begin a synopsis by saying In this movie.
Its redundant and a waste of words.
Phrase actions in the PRESENT TENSE. This is the convention, even if it doesnt
make sense.
Correct: Kimble works in a hospital to gain access to medical records.
Incorrect: Kimble worked in a hospital to gain access to medical records.