Planning does not limit creativity, it can unlock it. Jeffrey Philips, J.J. Renek, Kari Bovee, Ley Esses, Mally Becker, and Wendy Gee discuss outlining approaches that range from detailed spreadsheets to flexible index cards. This session explores how structured planning can deepen story logic, sharpen twists, and support confident drafting.
The Synopsis for Query Letters
Agents Amy Burkhardt, Cari Hawks, Denise Dietz, and Jeff Gerecke explain what makes a synopsis stand out in a query letter. They share how they evaluate submissions and what helps them decide when a manuscript is worth reading in full.




