Question

How does the author create the effect of tension in the plot?

A.
The author keeps the main character's problem secret from the audience.
B.
The author introduces a mysterious character in the middle of the story.
C.
The author uses foreshadowing throughout the story to signal impending doom.
D.
The author gives the main character a problem that seems unsolvable.

Answer 1

Answer: Option D.

Explanation: (got this question on my test and got it right)

Answer 2

D is the best choice of all the given answers, because it captures the essence of tension in a story -- the tension that comes from the main character being presented with a problem that has no evident solution. This is the most based option of all the choices presented. Foreshadowing, secret-keeping, and mysterious characters can all contribute to tension, but the greatest tension comes from presenting the audience with a problem that seems unsolvable.