Which term describes the struggle between two opposing forces in a story?

• A. Exposition
• B. Conflict
• C. Internal conflict
• D. Theme

Answer: (B)

The main idea being tested is the tension that drives the plot—the clash between opposing forces. The term that describes that struggle in a story is conflict. This word covers all kinds of battles that move the story forward, whether a character faces another person, a difficult situation, or a personal inner struggle. Exposition is just the setup of who, where, and when; a theme is the deeper message the author conveys; internal conflict refers to a specific type of struggle inside a character, not the general term for the whole clash that drives the plot. So conflict is the best fit because it names the overall struggle that creates suspense and motivates the events.