Exposition is a literary device used to convey background information within a story or narrative). It can include information about the setting, characters backstories, prior plot events, historical context, and more. Exposition can appear in the form of expository writing embedded within the narrative). There are two types of exposition: direct and indirect. Direct exposition, also known as infodumping, is a large drop of information by the author to provide background they deem necessary to continue the plot. This is ill-advised in narrative and is even worse when used in dialogue). Indirect exposition, sometimes called incluing, is a technique of worldbuilding in which the reader is allowed to discover information as they go).
Exposition is often found in the first paragraph or paragraphs of a story, where the characters, setting, and basic information are introduced. It can also be used to convey information about a characters background story, including the settings, past events, and other relevant details. Exposition works best when the author provides only the bare minimum of surface information and allows the readers to discover as they go).
In addition to literature, exposition can also refer to a large-scale public exhibition or show, as of art or manufactured products.
