What does effective point of view determine in a story?

The effective point of view in a story significantly influences the reader's emotional experience by shaping how they connect with characters, situations, and the overall narrative. The chosen point of view determines what information is shared with the reader and how it is presented, which can evoke empathy, suspense, or other emotional responses.

For instance, a first-person point of view allows readers to see the world through the character's eyes, often leading to a stronger emotional connection as they experience thoughts and feelings directly. In contrast, a third-person omniscient perspective can provide a broader understanding of multiple characters' thoughts and feelings but may create a different emotional dynamic. Thus, the effectiveness of the point of view is crucial in guiding how deeply the reader engages with the story's themes and character journeys.