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WRITING GLOSSARY

What is Climax?

The climax is the moment of highest tension in the story, when the central conflict reaches its decisive turn.

Definition

The climax is the moment of highest tension in the story, when the central conflict reaches its decisive turn. What happens here usually determines the outcome.

Example

The courtroom verdict, the final confrontation, or the public confession often marks the climax.

Related terms

Common mistakes

  • Placing the biggest event too early and leaving the ending flat.
  • Resolving the climax through luck or an unprepared outside force.
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