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Creative Writing · Lesson 1

Elements of a Story

Character, setting, plot, conflict, and theme — the pillars of fiction.

18 min · Watch → Read → Apply → Prove

Step 1 · Watch

Watch & reflect

Study the lesson, then take the quick check before moving on.

Step 2 · Read

Glance at Genre: Fiction & Story Elements

Study the literary elements list — plot, conflict, theme, and character — as you read.

Open reading on OpenStax ↗

Step 3 · Apply

Put it into practice

A short exercise to turn what you learned into skill.

Pick a story you know well. Name its main conflict and its theme.

Conflict is the struggle; theme is the deeper meaning the story explores.

Step 4 · Prove

Lesson test

Pass with 70% or higher to complete this lesson.

Further study optional