Which term refers to the choice of words an author selects in their writing?

The term that refers to the choice of words an author selects in their writing is diction. Diction encompasses the vocabulary and the style of expression used in speech or writing, shaping the tone and conveying the subtleties of meaning in the text. An author's diction can significantly influence how a reader interprets the characters, themes, and emotional depth of a piece.

Stream of consciousness refers to a narrative technique that attempts to capture the flow of thoughts and feelings running through a character's mind, rather than focusing solely on word choice. Expository writing serves to explain, inform, or describe a subject matter clearly and concisely, rather than highlighting the nuances of word selection. Problem/solution writing focuses on identifying an issue and proposing solutions, which does not inherently involve the nuanced selection of words characteristic of diction.