Plot the Most pieces of literature -- whether they are a short story, a novel, or a play -- contain a plot. The plot is the way the events unfold in the story. The purpose of a plot is to keep the reader interested in what is being told.

Elements of the Plot Introduction Inciting Force Rising Action Climax Falling Action Conclusion

Introduction The introduction of the story introduces the reader to the setting and the characters. The reader is given the basic background for the story.

Inciting Force The inciting force occurs in the story when the character interacts with his/her surroundings to create a situation that needs to be resolved. The main conflict in the story begins at this point and the storyline really gets underway.

Rising Action The rising action in the story makes up most of the story. It includes all of the events leading up to the point when the main conflict created by the inciting force is resolved or settled.

Climax The climax is often the highest point of tension in the story. The climax occurs when the main conflict in the story is resolved. Usually, an incident signals the end of the conflict.

Falling Action The falling action is the part of the plot where all unresolved problems or conflicts are resolved. It leads to the conclusion of the story.

Conclusion The conclusion may be very short or non-existent in some stories. Once all of the problems for the protagonist have been solved, the conclusion ties up loose ends in the story and may indicate what happens to the character(s) after the main storyline has ended.

Diagram of the Plot Climax Falling Action Conclusion Rising Action Inciting Force Introduction

The End You have learned about all parts of a story’s plot and are ready to try applying your understanding to an interactive exercise.