Personal Recount: 5-Part Story

A personal recount generally follows this structure: introduction, tension, climax, resolution, reflection. To lead up to a high point in the climax, ensure the build-up is suspenseful.

PLAN USING THE FIVE-PART STORYLINE FRAMEWORK

The five-part storyline framework ensures that the story you are about to tell leads up to a dramatic conflict that incentivises your readers to read on. More importantly, this framework ensures that your story is told with a purpose, and ends off leaving your readers with a sense of resolution.
  • Without Five-part Storyline

    You might lose track of where your story is going as you tell your tale, such that your story’s plot becomes flat and meaningless.

  • With Five-part Storyline

    Introduction
    Introduce information important to the story

    Rising Action 
    Build tension that leads to the climax

    Climax 
    Expound on the most exciting part

    Falling Action 
    Resolve the tension

    Resolution/Reflection
    Offer concluding thoughts.

Example:

Recount a time you had an adventurous day.
  • Without Five-part Storyline

    I went on a hike. I thought about what should pack and took along time to decide which route to take. I was eager to have some time to myself. I started my hike, and was one of the most adventurous hikes I ever had.

  • With Five-part Storyline

    Introduction
    I went on a hike.

    Rising Action
    Hungry for adventure, I decided to go off the main track and soon got lost.

    Climax
    Suddenly, a wild boar appeared and charged at me.

    Falling Action 
    I managed to escape, and only scrapped my knee.

    Resolution
    A rescue team found me. I had almost paid dearly for my daredevil attempt.

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