The Five Elements of Narrative Plot Structure

Front

Element: Exposition

Back

What is it?

The beginning of a story where the characters, setting (time and place), and main problem are introduced.

Front

Element: Rising Action

Back

What is it?

The events that build up to the most exciting part of the story. These events make the problem bigger and harder to solve.

Front

Element: Climax

Back

What is it?

The most exciting or important moment in the story when the main problem reaches its peak. It’s the turning point.

Front

Element: Falling Action

Back

What is it?

The events that happen after the climax. The problem starts to get solved, and things begin to calm down.

Front

Element: Resolution

Back

What is it?

The end of the story where everything is finalized, and we see how the problem ends or how the characters end.