Final answer:
In a fictional story, the series of related events that make up the story is known as the plot. It includes the exposition, rising action, and often a resolution, and it can be structured in different ways to affect the reader's experience.
Step-by-step explanation:
The series of related events in a fictional story comprise its plot. The plot is essential to fictional narratives, serving as the backbone that guides the reader through the story. It consists of several key components, including the exposition, which introduces the setting and main characters while hinting at potential conflicts; the rising action, where the events build up to the story's climax; and typically ends with a resolution where conflicts are resolved.
Understanding plot involves examining the structure of the story, which could be linear with events unfolding chronologically, or it could involve flashbacks or non-linear sequences. Critical elements to consider when discussing plot are scope, sequence, pacing, and how conflicts drive the narrative forward. The plotting determines the reader's experience and the effectiveness of the story's delivery.
For writers and students studying literature, the plot not only refers to the events but also to how these events are structured and presented, affecting the story's overall impact. Whether you are reading a novel, short story, novella, or any piece of prose, the plot is what captivates your attention and stimulates the imagination.