Elements of a Story

Front

Narrative

Back

Writing that tells a story.

Front

Plot

Back

The main events of a story, devised and presented by the writer as an interrelated sequence.

Front

Exposition

Back

The introduction of background information within a story; for example, information about the setting, events occurring before the main plot, characters' backstories, etc.

Front

Setting

Back

The time and place in which the story takes place.

Front

Conflict

Back

A struggle between opposing forces, typically the main problem in the story.

Front

Rising Action

Back

A series of events that create suspense, interest, and tension in a narrative, leading up to the climax.

Front

Climax

Back

The most intense, exciting, or important point of the story; a turning point.

Front

Falling Action

Back

The events that follow the climax and lead to the resolution.

Front

Resolution

Back

The conflict is resolved and loose ends are tied up. The audience usually feels a sense of closure.