What term describes the technique used to move the story towards its climax?

The technique used to move the story towards its climax is best described as advancing the plot. This term refers to the way a narrative progresses through various events, actions, and developments that heighten the tension and build towards a critical point in the story. Advancing the plot involves introducing key events, character interactions, and conflicts that create a sense of anticipation and urgency, leading to a climax where the main conflict reaches its peak.

In contrast, character development focuses on the growth and changes of characters throughout the story, while conflict resolution pertains to the methods by which conflicts in the narrative are resolved after the climax. Theme exploration involves delving into the underlying messages or concepts presented within a work, rather than focusing on the structural progression of the narrative itself. Each of these aspects plays a role in storytelling, but advancing the plot specifically targets the movement towards the climax, making it the most suitable choice.