What is the best way to start a horror story?

Set the scene in a spooky, isolated place like an old, creaking mansion on a stormy night. For example, 'The wind howled outside the decaying mansion as the rain lashed against the broken windows, and I stepped inside, not knowing what horrors awaited me.'

Begin with a mystery. Drop the reader right into the middle of a strange situation without any explanation at first. Maybe start with a character finding a strange symbol carved into their bedroom wall that they've never seen before and having no idea how it got there. It creates instant intrigue and a sense of foreboding.

Open with a mysterious object. For instance, 'The small, ornate box sat on the dusty shelf, pulsating with an unseen energy. No one knew where it came from or what it held, but I could feel its malevolence from across the room.'

The best way to start a story might be by introducing a relatable character. Let the readers meet the protagonist right away, show their personality, their daily routine, or a problem they are facing. This way, the readers can quickly get invested in the character and be more interested in the story as it unfolds.

One of the best ways to start a story is with an interesting character in an unusual situation. For example, 'The old man sat alone on the bench, his eyes fixed on a spot in the distance as if he was waiting for something that had been long overdue.' This immediately grabs the reader's attention and makes them wonder who the old man is and what he's waiting for.

One great way to start a story is with an exciting or mysterious event that hooks the reader right away.

One great way is to introduce a compelling character. Give details about them that make the reader curious about their journey and what will happen to them.

Beginning with a mysterious disappearance can be great. Say something like, 'When he woke up that morning, his sister was gone. There was no sign of a struggle, just an empty bed and a cold breeze coming in through the open window. He knew, in that moment, that something truly terrifying had begun.' This immediately creates a sense of unease and mystery, drawing the reader in.

One effective way is to introduce a mysterious character who seems to have a dark secret. Maybe they show up at an isolated place and give off an eerie vibe. That can really draw readers in.

One good way is to introduce a mysterious character who gives off an eerie vibe. Maybe they have a hidden past or strange behavior that makes the reader curious and nervous.