Overview

Narrative writing tells a story or gives an account of an event. Every story has three basic elements: characters, setting, and plot.

Present the events in your narrative in the time order in which they happen, namely, in chronological order. To help your reader keep track of this order, use transition words. Make your writing sound interesting by varying your transitions rather than overusing general words such as first, next, and finally.

The point of view is important in a narrative. Some stories are told from the first person point of view; others are told from the third person. Dialogue can reveal what the characters are like. It can tell about their moods, interests, and personalities.

A historical narrative relates a real or imaginary event from the past. A news story is also a kind of narrative. A strong news story answers the questions: What happened? When? Where? How? Who was involved? Why is it important?

A good story—fictional, historical, or news—begins with a strong lead or opening. If the lead is dull, the reader may not continue. If it is interesting or exciting, the reader will keep reading to find out what happens. Narrative writing will tell the story.