This document defines and explains various terms related to short stories, including: - A short story is a brief work of fiction where the main character faces and resolves a conflict that drives the plot. - Characters can be round or flat, and static or dynamic. Characterization is how authors develop characters through direct or indirect means. - The protagonist is the main character who changes the most due to experiences. The antagonist opposes the protagonist and does not change. Conflicts can be internal or external. - The plot consists of exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution. It presents a series of related events involving complications that build to a turning point.