Read the introduction of the story. Take note of the action that is occurring in the scene of the story to the characters. A good narrative will hook the reader with engaging action. A character may rob a store or win the lottery in the introduction, foreshadowing what will happen throughout the narrative.
Notice how the characters, setting and action are described throughout the story. A successful narrative details even the smallest item in the story, creating a picture for the reader. For example, a clock striking 12 a.m. in the story will have a description such as "the weathered grandfather clock slowly creaked as it moved its large metal hand to the number 12."
Pay close attention to the dialogue between characters. Each character will have a specific speaking style in a successful narrative, indicating the character's personality. A strong story also shows the reader what is happening through dialogue spoken by characters, rather than describing the emotions portrayed by each character.
Analyze the situations that occur throughout the narrative. Each situation should move the story forward and reveal something new about the character. A poor narrative easily side tracks the reader with unnecessary information that doesn't pertain to the story.
Take note of the rising action in the middle of the narrative. The rising action contains situations that slowly lead to the climax. Characters must overcome several obstacles in the narrative before the big event, or climax, occurs that changes the fate of the character.
Examine the end of the story for a successful resolution. After the climax of the story has occurred in the narrative, a resolution to the story is detailed to provide closure for the reader. For example, a female character who lost a spouse during the climax of the narrative may pack her garments and leave the country to start a new life elsewhere.