What is a cliffhanger? O A. A moment of high tension that ends a section of a story O B. The information readers need to learn as the story begins O c. The series of events that drive the plot toward the climax D. The main problem that helps to move the story forward

Answer: A cliffhanger is **A. A moment of high tension that ends a section of a story.** This storytelling device involves ending a chapter, an episode, a volume, or even an entire story, at a very suspenseful or dramatic moment, where the outcome is uncertain. The term "cliffhanger" reflects the idea of a character literally hanging off a cliff and the reader/viewer not knowing the fate of the character until the next installment of the story. This tactic is used to ensure the audience is eager to find out what happens next and to maintain their interest in the narrative.

Extra: The concept of a cliffhanger is often used in television and literature to keep the audience engaged and create a compelling reason for them to return for the next installment. This might be achieved through various means, such as the protagonist finding themselves in immediate peril, a sudden plot twist, a big reveal that incites more questions than answers, or an important character facing a critical decision.

Cliffhangers can occur at the end of a book chapter, an episode in a TV series, a movie in a series, or even a season finale. The intent is to establish a strong emotional connection between the story and the audience, making it difficult for them to walk away without satisfying their curiosity. The term originated from serialized literature and films from the early 20th century, where each installment would end with a suspenseful scenario designed to entice viewers to return for the next part. Today, it is a common technique used across various media and genres to create excitement and encourage continued engagement with the narrative.