"A sequence of events in which each event affects the next one through the principle of cause-and-effect."
The sequence of events and actions that move the story forward and create conflict and tension.
Conflict: This refers to the central struggle or problem that drives the plot forward. It can be internal or external and can involve characters, situations, or ideas.
Characters: Characters are the individuals in the story and their personalities, motivations, and actions are integral to plot development.
Setting: Setting refers to the time and place where the story takes place. It can also influence the plot and characters.
Narrative structure: The way a story is structured or organized can affect how the plot unfolds. Examples include linear or non-linear storytelling, the use of flashbacks or foreshadowing, and the use of different perspectives.
Theme: A theme is a central idea or message that the author is trying to convey through their story. It can be inferred through character actions, plot events, and setting details.
Climax: The climax is the highest point of tension in the story, often referred to as the storytelling's turning point.
Resolution: The resolution or denouement is the conclusion of the story where the central conflict is resolved, and loose ends are tied up.
Subplots: Subplots are secondary storylines that run alongside or interact with the main plot.
Suspense: Suspense is the feeling of tension or anticipation that makes the reader or audience curious about what happens next.
Irony: Irony is the use of language or situations that are the opposite of what is expected, adding a layer of irony to any plotline.
Foreshadowing: Foreshadowing is when hints or clues about what is to come are given before the actual event occurs.
Point of view: The point of view refers to who is telling the story, and how it affects the narrative structure and the reader's perception of the plot.
Tone: Tone refers to the author's attitude towards the story and its characters, which can affect the way the plot is presented.
Imagery: Imagery refers to the use of sensory details to create a mental picture for the reader, which can enhance the plot and character development.
Symbolism: Using symbols, which represent something else, to add depth to a story can be a useful tool in any writer's creative arsenal.
linear plot: One that follows a straight progression from the beginning to the end; events occur chronologically and typically follow a clear cause-and-effect pattern.
non-linear plot: A plot that doesn't follow a clear chronological pattern and often includes flashbacks or forwards.
episodic plot: A plot that is made up of separate episodes or events that could stand alone but are connected by a common theme or central protagonist.
circular plot: A plot that starts and ends in the same place or follows a circular pattern with recurring events and themes.
frame story plot: A plot where a story within a story is told that serves as the frame for the main plot.
parallel plot: A plot that includes multiple storylines running simultaneously, often with different characters and settings, that come together in the end.
transformation plot: A plot that follows the transformation of the protagonist or other characters, often through challenges or obstacles they must overcome.
romance plot: A plot that centers on a love story or romantic relationship.
quest plot: A plot where the protagonist(s) set out on a journey or mission to accomplish a specific goal or find a specific item.
tragedy plot: A plot that follows the downfall or destruction of the protagonist or a tragic hero.
"The causal events of a plot can be thought of as a series of events linked by the connector 'and so'."
"Plots can vary from the simple—such as in a traditional ballad—to forming complex interwoven structures."
"Each part sometimes referred to as a subplot or imbroglio."
"Plot is similar in meaning to the term storyline."
"The term highlights important points which have consequences within the story."
"Referring to either the writer's crafting of a plot (devising and ordering story events), or else to a character's planning of future actions in the story."
"In common usage, for example, a 'movie plot' can mean a narrative summary or story synopsis, rather than a specific cause-and-effect sequence."
"It can even refer to the whole narrative broadly."
"Each event affects the next one through the principle of cause-and-effect."
"Plots can vary from the simple—such as in a traditional ballad—to forming complex interwoven structures."
"Each part sometimes referred to as a subplot or imbroglio."
"Plot is similar in meaning to the term storyline."
"The term highlights important points which have consequences within the story."
"Referring to either the writer's crafting of a plot (devising and ordering story events), or else to a character's planning of future actions in the story."
"In common usage, for example, a 'movie plot' can mean a narrative summary or story synopsis, rather than a specific cause-and-effect sequence."
"It can even refer to the whole narrative broadly."
"The principle of cause-and-effect."
"From the simple—such as in a traditional ballad—to forming complex interwoven structures."
"Each part sometimes referred to as a subplot or imbroglio."