A one-sentence summary, often referred to as a logline in the film industry or an elevator pitch in the literary world, is a concise and clear summary of your story’s main premise or central conflict. This single sentence captures the essence of your story and can be incredibly powerful both as a writing tool and as a promotional asset.

What is a one-sentence summary? It’s a condensed version of your story that highlights the main character, their goal, the main conflict or obstacle, and what’s at stake. For instance, ‘The Godfather’: The aging patriarch of an organized crime dynasty transfers control of his clandestine empire to his reluctant son.

Benefits and How It Enhances Your Writing:

1. Clarity of Thought: Crafting a one-sentence summary forces you to distill your story down to its most essential elements, ensuring you have a clear understanding of your story’s core.
2. Focused During Writing: With a one-sentence guide, you’re less likely to deviate into unnecessary subplots or tangents. It acts as a compass to keep your narrative on track.
3. Pitching and Promotion: If you’re looking to get your story published or adapted, a compelling one-sentence summary can grab an agent’s, publisher’s, or producer’s attention.
4. Engagement: A strong summary piques interest. Readers, listeners, or viewers will want to dive into your story to see how it unfolds.
5. Revision Tool: As you edit or revise your story, returning to your one-sentence summary can help you identify areas where the story might have veered off course.

Tips to Write a One-Sentence Summary:

1. Character + Conflict + Stakes: At its core, most stories can be broken down into these three elements. Identify them and weave them into your summary.
2. Be Specific: Rather than saying ‘a man faces challenges,’ specify the nature of those challenges. For example, ‘A lawyer defends a black man accused of rape in the racially charged American South.’
3. Avoid Names: Unless the character is iconic like Sherlock Holmes or Harry Potter, focus on their role or defining trait.
4. Keep It Concise: It’s a one-sentence summary for a reason. Aim for clarity and brevity. Avoid subplots or secondary characters.
5. Test It Out: Share your summary with friends or fellow writers. If they’re intrigued and want to know more, you’ve likely nailed it.

In essence, a one-sentence summary serves as the backbone of your narrative. It’s a simple yet powerful tool that can enhance the coherence and impact of your story, regardless of its length.