How to Write a Climax
In order to create a story with a climax, it is necessary to begin with a conflict. Without a conflict, there can be no climax.
- First, think of a problem that a character may face. This is the conflict.
- Then, think of a way in which that problem may be faced. This is the climax.
Oftentimes, stories are complicated with a variety of scenes and a variety of conflicts, but generally, there is one overarching conflict or problem at stake.
When to Use Climax
When used in literature, climax is placed after the exposition and rising action, but before falling action and resolution. Climax, then, is in the middle of the plot structure:
- Exposition
- Rising action
- Climax
- Falling action
- Resolution
Oftentimes, though, the length of a story is spent on exposition and rising action, which lead up to an exciting crescendo with the climax. After the climax, the story is quickly finished with the falling action and resolution. Climax, then, is usually towards the end of a story.
The placement of climax can vary from story to story slightly, but in plays, it is often towards the end of the third act.
The same holds true for climax as used in the media and advertisements. Typically, the most exciting and compelling part of a song, movie, or advertisement is saved for just before the end. In a song, the violins swell and the trumpets roar. In a movie, the special effects take over, emotional music plays, and the battle is at last won or lost.