Narration Techniques: Structure, Details, and Point of View in Storytelling

Narration

telling a story to make a point.

Thesis

Must be clear and unified; can be explicit (directly stated) or implicit (reader infers).

Example of Thesis

A car accident story → Thesis could be 'Even small distractions can cause big consequences.'

Structure of Narration

Introduction - sets scene, introduces main idea; Body - main events, usually chronological; Conclusion - resolution, meaning, reinforces thesis.

Conflict

is central: story usually has a problem, struggle, or challenge.

Resolution

provides closure and clarifies point.

Chronological order

most common (beginning → middle → end); can use flashbacks/flash-forwards if clear.

Details

Concrete and sensory detail are critical; appeal to the five senses; include specific names, places, dialogue; must be relevant and support thesis.

Transitions

Essential for clarity; time signals: first, next, later, afterward, suddenly; spatial signals: to the left, above, nearby, beyond; keep flow smooth and logical.

Point of View

First-person (I/we): intimate, personal; Third-person (he/she/they): broader, more objective; choose depending on audience and purpose; must be consistent—avoid switching POVs.

Tone

writer's attitude toward subject; should match story's purpose (serious, humorous, reflective, suspenseful); avoid tone shifts that distract from point.

Purposes of Narration

To explain or illustrate an idea; to make abstract concepts concrete; to engage readers emotionally; to entertain while teaching a lesson.