Explanation devices

Disciplines > Storytelling > Story devices > Explanation devices

Story devices and techniques are 'tricks of the trade' that authors use to make their story work effectively. Here are devices that are used to explain what is going on to the audience.

• Aside: Speaking to the audience.
• Dream sequence: Separated fragment that explains.
• Exposition: Explaining other parts of story.
• Flashback: Narration of earlier events.
• Foreshadowing: Hints about what is to come.
• Monologue: Extended speech by character.
• Narrator: Absent telling what is happening.
• Parallel: Tell a parallel story that explains the main story.
• Point of view: First person, second and narrator.

See also