What does the term "plot" refer to in literature?

The term "plot" in literature specifically refers to the sequence of main events in a story. This includes the various actions, conflicts, and resolutions that drive the narrative forward. A well-defined plot usually consists of an introduction, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution, which collectively create the framework for the story's structure. Understanding the plot is essential for grasping how characters interact and how conflicts unfold and are resolved within the narrative. This concept is crucial to analyzing stories, as it highlights how events are interconnected and progress to convey the central themes and messages of the work. Other options focus on different aspects of literature, such as structure, authorial choices, or thematic elements, none of which encapsulate the essence of "plot" as clearly as the sequence of events does.