Final answer:
The term describing the reader's uncertain feelings about the outcome of a story is 'suspense', which keeps readers engaged by creating anticipation. It is distinct from 'conflict', and builds towards the climax, before tensions are resolved in the resolution.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term used to describe the reader's feeling of uncertainty regarding the outcome of a story is suspense. Suspense is a literary device used by authors to keep readers interested and engaged in the plot by creating a sense of anticipation about what will happen next. Unlike conflict, which is the central struggle between opposing forces, suspense involves the tension that arises from uncertainty. The climax of a story is the moment of greatest tension, which is typically followed by the falling action where tensions begin to be resolved, leading up to the resolution, or the conclusion of the narrative.
Throughout a narrative, suspense is built through the rising action, as the plot moves toward the climax. The resolution of the plot's conflict may also involve a revelation, where something significant is discovered that shapes the outcome of the story. Authors often use foreshadowing as a technique to hint at future events, which can also contribute to the creation of suspense.