Which type of conflict involves a character facing an outside force?

• A. Plot
• B. Internal conflict
• C. Theme
• D. External conflict

Answer: (D)

Types of conflict in a story describe who or what the character is struggling against. When the struggle comes from an outside force—someone else, nature, or society—the conflict is external. This is exactly the situation described: the character is facing an outside challenge or obstacle, not a battle inside their own mind.

External conflict examples help it click: a hero clashing with a villain, a character trying to survive a hurricane, or someone contending with unfair laws. By contrast, internal conflict happens inside the character, like deciding between right and wrong, overcoming fear, or dealing with guilt. Plot refers to the sequence of events in the story, while theme is the deeper message or idea the author explores.

So, because the problem involves a struggle with an outside force, that type of conflict is external conflict.