English Structure Techniques

Opening

The beginning of a text, used to introduce the setting, characters, mood or central idea.

Ending

The final part of a text, used to resolve events, leave uncertainty or reinforce an important idea.

Chronological structure

Events are presented in time order, allowing the reader to follow them clearly.

Non-linear structure

Events are presented out of time order to reveal information gradually or create mystery.

Flashback

The narrative returns to an earlier event to provide background information or explain the present.

Flash-forward

The narrative jumps ahead in time to reveal or suggest what may happen later.

Foreshadowing

Hints or clues suggest a future event, building anticipation or tension.

Withholding information

Important details are deliberately delayed to create suspense, mystery or surprise.

Shift in focus

Attention moves to a different character, object, place or idea, guiding what the reader notices.

Shift in setting

The location or time changes, creating a new atmosphere or stage in the narrative.

Shift in tone

The writer’s attitude or the mood changes, marking a turning point in the text.

Narrative perspective

The viewpoint from which a story is told, controlling what the reader knows and experiences.

Zooming in

The writer moves from a broad view to a precise detail to draw attention to something important.

Zooming out

The writer moves from a close detail to a wider view to reveal context or change perspective.

Pacing

The writer controls how quickly or slowly events unfold to create excitement, tension or reflection.

Short sentence

A brief sentence that can emphasise an idea, slow the reader down or create tension.

Long sentence

An extended sentence that can add detail, build momentum or reflect continuous thought or action.

Sentence fragment

An intentionally incomplete sentence used to create emphasis, urgency or a disrupted feeling.

Paragraph length

Shorter or longer paragraphs control pace and show changes in topic, time, place or mood.

Repetition

A word, phrase, image or idea is repeated to emphasise its importance or show a pattern.

Listing

Several details are presented together to build an impression, show variety or make something feel overwhelming.

Contrast

Different characters, settings, ideas or moments are placed against each other to highlight their differences.

Juxtaposition

Two contrasting elements are placed close together so their differences become especially noticeable.

Cyclical structure

The ending returns to the opening image, setting or idea, creating a sense of completion or repetition.

Climax

The most intense or important point of the text, where tension or conflict reaches its peak.

Anti-climax

An expected dramatic moment ends weakly or unexpectedly, often creating disappointment, humour or shock.

Dialogue

Spoken interaction between characters reveals relationships, personality, conflict or important information.