| Term | Definition |
| Initial Incident | Events putting a story in gear |
| Rising Action | Series of complications in the narrative |
| Climax | Highest point of interest, action, or tension; turning point in the protagonist's behavior/thoughts |
| Denouement | Resolution; tying up the loose ends of the plot |
| Foreshadowing | Hints at future events |
| Flashbacks | Cut/piece a prior scene into the present situation |
| Medias Res | "To be in the middle"; Places reader immediately into the action |
| Subplot | Secondary plot; Explores ideas different from main story |
| Parallel Plot | Secondary story line mimicking main plot |
| Setting | Time &place of work; Reveals style, character, theme |
| General Setting | Emphasizes universality of the work |
| Specific Setting | Creates definitive ambiance impacting work's possiblities |
| Character/Foil Setting | Underscores distinctive characteristics of protagonist |
| Limiting Factor Setting | Allows plot, character, &theme to develop |