Concept

Climax

You might say: final showdown, the big moment

The protagonist’s active answer to the story’s last crisis. It shows who she really is under pressure.

What it does

Answers the dramatic question and pays off the main promises.

Ask

Does she win or lose because of a choice she makes?

Typical

Starts about 90% of the way through (Weiland)

Trouble

Luck, or another character, solves the problem for her.

Connections

• See also: Controlling idea

Sources

1. Story Grid, “The Five Commandments of Storytelling”, Five CommandmentsThe climax is the active answer to the question raised by the crisis.
2. K.M. Weiland, “Quick Guide to Timing Plot Points Within Your Story’s Structure”, Timing Plot Points 101Climax will begin around the 90% mark in your book.

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