What is referred to as the dramatic tension that keeps the reader engaged in a story?

The correct answer is conflict, which is a crucial element in storytelling that creates dramatic tension and keeps readers engaged. Conflict refers to the struggle between opposing forces, whether internal or external, that drives the narrative forward. It can manifest in various forms, such as character versus character, character versus society, character versus self, or character versus nature. This tension compels readers to become emotionally invested in the characters and their journeys, as they are eager to see how these conflicts will be resolved.

The other options represent different components of a story. The climax is the peak of action or the turning point in the narrative, where the tensions are at their highest. Exposition provides background information and sets the stage for the story, introducing the characters and setting. Resolution is the conclusion of the story where conflicts are resolved and the narrative comes to a close. While all these elements contribute to the overall structure of a story, conflict is specifically what creates the ongoing tension that sustains reader interest throughout the unfolding plot.