What is the term for the main action in a story?

The main action in a story is referred to as the plot. The plot encompasses the sequence of events and actions that make up the narrative, guiding the reader through the story from beginning to end. It involves the development of characters and situations, ultimately leading to the story's resolution. Understanding the plot is essential as it provides structure and drives the progression of the narrative, setting the stage for character development and thematic exploration. In contrast, other terms like theme, setting, and conflict have distinct definitions; the theme relates to the underlying message or main idea of the story, the setting refers to the time and place in which the story occurs, and the conflict represents the struggle or challenge faced by the characters. Each of these elements contributes to the overall storytelling but does not encapsulate the main action as defined by the plot.