Can you list some good ways to start short stories?

A good way to start a novel is to pose a question. For instance, 'What if the world as we know it ended tomorrow?' This makes the reader think and draws them into the story as they seek the answer.

Starting with a thought - provoking question can be effective. For instance, 'What if the world as we knew it ended tomorrow?' It makes the reader start thinking and gets them engaged in the story from the very beginning. They'll be eager to see how the story will explore this question.

One common way to start a short story is by introducing a mystery. For instance, 'The box was small and unassuming, but it held a secret that no one could have guessed.' This piques the reader's curiosity. Starting with a strong emotion can also be good. 'Anger boiled inside her as she read the words on the page.' It gives an instant connection to the character's state of mind. Also, beginning with a memory can work. 'She remembered that day, the sun shining brightly, as if it were yesterday.'

You could start with a big event like a wedding. The two main characters could be guests at the same wedding. They are seated at the same table and start chatting. There's the atmosphere of love in the air from the wedding, and it can inspire their own potential romance. It's a setting full of possibilities for a new relationship to begin.

One good way is to start with a vivid description of a setting. For example, 'The old, creaky house stood alone at the end of the dirt road, surrounded by overgrown weeds that seemed to reach for the gray sky.' This immediately sets a mood and draws the reader in.

Sure. For beginners, starting with a simple but engaging description is good. Like 'The small cottage by the lake looked peaceful in the morning sun.' It's easy to write and gives a nice starting point. Another is to start with a basic dialogue, such as 'Hello? Is anyone there?' It gets the story going. Starting with a character's goal can also work. 'She wanted to find the missing key at all costs.'

You could start with a thought-provoking question. Like, 'What if the world stopped spinning? How would we survive?' This gets the reader thinking and interested in seeing where the story will go with this concept.

Begin with a character's internal monologue that reveals their deep - seated desires or fears. For example, 'He always knew he was different. He could feel it in his bones, this otherness that set him apart from everyone else.' This gives the reader an instant connection to the character and makes them invested in the story from the start.

Sure. Meeting at a concert of a favorite band can be a great start. The shared love for the music can spark an instant connection. Another way is through online dating platforms. You can match with someone who seems interesting and start chatting.

One way is to start with a vivid description of a setting. For example, 'The old, creaky house stood alone at the end of the overgrown lane, its broken shutters flapping in the cold wind.' This immediately creates an atmosphere and draws the reader in. Another way is to start with an interesting dialogue. 'Are you sure we should be here?' 'There's no other option now.' It makes the reader wonder what's going on and who the speakers are. Also, starting with a sudden action can be effective. 'He ran, not looking back, the sound of the gunshot still ringing in his ears.'