The action of the story is commonly referred to as what?

The action of the story is referred to as "plot." The plot encompasses the sequence of events and actions that take place in a narrative, including how these events unfold and are related to one another. It typically consists of various components such as the exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution, which collectively shape the narrative structure and guide the reader through the story.

Understanding the plot is crucial as it helps in identifying the central conflict, exploring the motivations of characters, and recognizing the themes presented throughout the story. While characters are vital for driving the plot forward, and elements like climax and dialogue contribute to the overall narrative, the term "plot" specifically focuses on the action and sequence of events that define the story.