What is the story's central conflict?
Who is the protagonist? What does he or she want?
What is at stake for the protagonist in the conflict?
What stands in the way of the protagonist's easily achieving his or her goal?
What are the main events that take place in the story? How does each event relate to the protagonist's struggle?
Where do you find the story's climax, or crisis?
How is the conflict resolved?
Does the protagonist succeed in achieving his or her goals?
What is the impact of success, failure, or a surprising outcome on the protagonist?