HBS Creative Writing Skills Flashcards

What is the 'climax' of a story?

Answer: The turning point of highest tension

The climax is the most exciting or tense moment in the story — the turning point.

Which technique makes dialogue feel natural in creative writing?

Answer: Using contractions and interruptions

Natural dialogue uses contractions, interruptions, and informal speech patterns as people actually speak.

What does 'foreshadowing' mean in writing?

Answer: Hinting at events that will happen later

Foreshadowing is a literary device that hints at future events in the story.

Which is the most effective opening for a story?

Answer: The scream tore through the silence before Emma could reach the door.

An effective opening creates immediate tension, atmosphere, and intrigue, as in the third option.

A 'protagonist' in a story is:

Answer: the main character

The protagonist is the main character around whom the story revolves.

What effect does short, punchy sentences have in creative writing?

Answer: They create tension and urgency

Short sentences speed up the pace, creating a sense of tension, urgency, or excitement.