What Key Elements Do You Need to Make Sure That the Story Is Complete?

Exposition

The exposition of a story is where a storyteller presents the characters and setting. Characters should be described in terms of their physical appearance, personality and history, but not in too much detail. Aside from appearance, other elements of characterization should be shown as the story unfolds. Setting can be more or less important depending on the type of story. For example, a dramatic story depicting a tumultuous period and place in history should place more emphasis on setting than a lighthearted story of friends who often get together to discuss their personal relationships.

During the rising action of the story when the main characters act out their respective roles, conflict should be introduced. For example, when the main character of a story struggles against a society attempting to pigeonhole him in a role he does not want. Conflict creates dramatic tension because the audience is not sure which side will be victorious. During the middle phase, creating this kind of tension is crucial, because it keeps the audience's mind from wandering and focuses them on the story.

The climax of the story, as the word implies, is the highest point of the action, the moment where the audience collectively holds its breathe. The climax does not need to be something as huge as the fate of the universe; it is the point at which the dramatic tension has built over the course of the story comes to a head. For example, when the male lead in a romantic comedy overcomes his inner turmoil and admits his feelings for the female lead.

All storytellers need to provide the audience with some kind of ending. The conclusion shows the outcome of the events from the climax and gives the audience at least some hint about how the characters' lives will continue on. While some modern storytellers like to be somewhat ambiguous about the meaning of their conclusions, they still give the audience something to interpret. For example, the ending of the film "The Graduate" leaves it up to the audience whether the main character will be happy in the long run, but it does show that he has made a break with his previous life.