The plot refers to the main events and circumstances that are developed in sequence throughout a narrative, especially a short story or a novel.
A story can also have multiple plots which focus on different characters and their ongoing conflicts.
A common plot has five essential elements:
- Exposition: the introduction of the setting, characters, and conflict.
- Rising action: The characters face the conflict, and the story intensifies.
- Climax: The main character faces the biggest challenge, and the most intense events ensue.
- Falling action: The conflict starts to resolve and decreases its intensity.
- Resolution: The conclusion of the story, conflicts, and character arcs.