The inciting incident is the narrative event that launches the main action. It typically occurs within the first act of the story and means something significant for the main character, most likely impacting their entire life. It should also fully engage the reader with the story, serving as an indicator of what’s to come.
Answer: Any action or idea that sets the rising action into motion is an initiating event. Some examples include Harry Potter's mysterious letter, Luke Skywalker's new android running away, and Bilbo Baggins vanishing from his birthday party.