What defines the point of view in a story?

The point of view in a story is defined by the narrator’s perspective. This perspective determines how the events are presented to the reader and influences the reader's understanding of characters and plot. For instance, if a story is told from a first-person point of view, readers gain intimate insights into the thoughts and feelings of the narrator, which shapes their experiences and the overall narrative. Similarly, a third-person omniscient viewpoint allows the reader to see multiple characters’ thoughts and backgrounds, broadening the narrative scope.

In contrast, the setting refers to the time and place where the story occurs, which, while important, does not dictate how the story is told. The character's motivations explain why characters act in certain ways and contribute to plot development, but they do not establish the perspective through which the story is conveyed. The central conflict drives the story’s plot but is separate from the point of view itself, as it concerns the challenges characters face rather than how their story is narrated. Therefore, the narrator’s perspective is the key element that defines the point of view in a story.