The Shawshank Redemption uses flashbacks to construct the whole story. The story is mainly from the perspective of Andy, the protagonist, and reveals the truth of the crime with his memories. At the beginning of the story, Andy was sentenced to prison for murder. In prison, he met another prisoner, Rhett. Rhett taught Andy the incredible diamond trick, and Andy studied hard under his guidance. Finally, he successfully escaped from prison by this deception. Later, Andy returned to America by boat, only to find himself involved in a big scam. He was forced to flee to an island and was finally arrested by the police. Finally, Rhett came out to save Andy and was acquitted.

Andy's story is unfolded through flashbacks. He keeps recalling what happened in the past. He met Rhett in prison and studied the diamond scam. After he returned to America, he was involved in a scam. Finally, Rhett saved him, and he was acquitted, thus showing the whole story completely. This flashback technique makes the story more coherent and dramatic, and makes the audience better understand Andy's experience, thus making the story more profound.