A synopsis presents part of a work, either as a process paper for your own use or as a written presentation, e.g. for an oral examination. A synopsis may serve many different purposes and take many different forms. 

Synopses in the form of written presentations for an exam could be 

• a written presentation for an oral examination submitted some time before the oral part of the exam takes place. 

• a short written presentation of a study that you will later unfold in a full written assignment. 

Common to both types of synopses is that they may vary considerably in length. Different degree programmes have different requirements for synopses, so you always need to check your academic regulations or ask your teacher before you start working on your synopsis. 

Part of a larger study 

Regardless of whether the synopsis is the basis of an oral or a written presentation, you should consider what to include in your synopsis, and what you will only present in the full presentation of the study. It is a good idea to save some essential points for the actual presentation. Note, however, that a synopsis used in connection with an exam will often influence the final assessment. Ask your supervisor what applies to your course or degree programme.