Plot structure

English

Definition

The sequence of events in a narrative organized into a recognizable pattern. The most common model includes exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution (also called Freytag's Pyramid), which together create the story's tension and release.

Examples

  • In The Outsiders: exposition introduces the Greasers, rising action builds gang tension, the climax is the church fire, and the resolution is Ponyboy's reflection
  • A mystery novel's rising action involves gathering clues, the climax reveals the culprit, and the resolution shows justice served
  • A short story may compress plot structure, jumping quickly from conflict to climax
Key Fact

Freytag's Pyramid: Exposition → Rising Action → Climax → Falling Action → Resolution

Related Terms

Narrative arc Conflict types Dramatic structure Narrative terms

Study This Concept

Practice plot structure with free review games in these units:

Creative Writing Unit 1: Elements of Fiction English 9 Unit 1: Narrative Writing