Elements of a Story

Front

Exposition

Back

Events that introduce characters and setting

Front

Rising Action

Back

Events that develop the characters, setting, and conflict

Front

Inciting Incident

Back

The introduction of the conflict

Front

Climax

Back

The event where the conflict is at the most tense point that leads to a dramatic turn of the story

Front

Falling Action

Back

Events that start to complete conflict, setting, and character development

Front

Resolution

Back

The completion of the story development and ultimate solution of the conflict

Front

Plot

Back

The sequence of events that make up a story

Front

Purpose of Rising Action

Back

To build tension and develop the story's characters and setting

Front

Purpose of Resolution

Back

To provide closure and resolve the story's conflict