Stages of Plot

The opening portion (basic situation) that sets
the scene, introduces the main characters, provides important
background information

A struggle between two opposing forces, providing crucial tension to a story

Person vs. person, person vs. environment

Person vs. self

a moment of high tension

the moment of greatest tension at which the
outcome will be decided

The ultimate outcome of conclusion of the story.
(also known as the “dénouement”, French for the ‘untying of
the knot’)Protagonist

The principal character who drives the story forward by
pursuing a goal.

A character (or characters) that opposes the protagonist

A scene that takes place before the story begins, interrupting the main narrative to present a detail important to the theme.

An event that gives an advance hint of what is to come later in the story.

A moment of insight, discovery, or revelation by which a character’s life, or view of life, is greatly altered.

A universal statement providing central insight into human nature. For our literary purposes, it must be a COMPLETE SENTENCE