Writing: Narrative Writing Techniques Flashcards

Which line of dialogue is punctuated correctly?

Answer: "I can't find my keys," said Tom.

In US English, the comma goes inside the closing quotation mark before the dialogue tag.

When writing dialogue between two characters, when should a new paragraph begin?

Answer: Each time the speaker changes

Starting a new paragraph for each speaker makes it clear who is talking.

A writer includes a brief scene from the main character's childhood in the middle of a present-day story. What technique is this?

Answer: Flashback

A flashback interrupts the present timeline to show an earlier event.

Which sentence uses a simile?

Answer: The crowd moved like a slow river toward the exit.

A simile compares two things using 'like' or 'as'.

Which is the best way to vary sentence structure in a tense action scene?

Answer: Mix short, punchy sentences with longer ones to control pace

Short sentences speed up the pace while varied lengths keep writing engaging.

An early mention of a cracked bridge that later collapses during the climax is an example of:

Answer: Foreshadowing

Foreshadowing hints at events that will happen later in the story.

Which choice best describes the climax of a narrative?

Answer: The moment of highest tension or turning point

The climax is where the main conflict reaches its peak.