The plot is the sequence of events in the story from the beginning to the end (timeline). Usually the order of events is: exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, denouement.
Exposition:
The beginning of the story where the author introduces the setting, characters, and other important information the readers needs to know.
Rising Action:
A series of events that builds from the beginning of the story. Rising action is where the author builds interest and tension in the story.
Climax:
Also can be called the “turning point”. This is the highest point of tension or action in the story. The climax often leads the reader to wonder, “What will happen? How is everything going to turn out?” The climax is an important turning point for the characters or the story.
Falling Action:
The events of the story after the climax or turning point. The events are leading to the end of the story and the resolution.
Denouement:
The resolution. This is the final outcome or “untangling” of the events of the story.
