What is a cliffhanger?

A cliffhanger is a suspenseful situation in a narrative that leaves the outcome uncertain at the end of a chapter. This narrative technique is designed to engage readers and keep them invested in the story by creating a sense of suspense and anticipation. When a story ends on a cliffhanger, it typically raises questions about what will happen next, compelling readers to continue to find out how the situation resolves. This element is commonly used in various genres, particularly in thrillers and serialized storytelling.

The other options do not accurately represent the concept of a cliffhanger. An inner conflict pertains to a character's emotional or mental struggle, logical resolutions are related to how plots typically find closure, and character development focuses on the evolution of a character over time, rather than the immediate suspense that cliffhangers provide.