What is a plot twist?

A plot twist refers to an unexpected change in the story's direction that surprises the reader and alters their understanding of the narrative. This dramatic turn often challenges previous assumptions and can lead to a deeper engagement with the plot. It plays a crucial role in storytelling by keeping the audience intrigued and prompting them to rethink the story's events and character motivations.

Choosing this answer reflects an understanding of how plot twists function to add complexity and excitement to a narrative. The element of surprise is essential to what makes a plot twist effective, as it breaks away from the anticipated flow of events, creating a memorable and impactful moment in the story. This technique is widely used in literature to enhance suspense and keep readers invested in the outcome.