What are some effective ways to start an opening to a horror story?

Start with a sudden, unexpected event. Like a car crash in the middle of a desolate road at midnight. The protagonist is dazed and confused, and then they start to notice strange things around them. It gets the reader's heart racing immediately.

One way is to start with a sense of mystery. For example, describe an unusual sound in the dead of night like 'A strange scratching echoed through the empty hallway, as if something unseen was clawing at the walls.' Another way could be to introduce a spooky setting immediately, such as 'The old, decrepit mansion loomed at the end of the overgrown path, its broken windows like soulless eyes.'

Another way is to start with a setting that is inherently spooky. For example, an old, abandoned asylum with peeling paint and broken windows. As the reader imagines this desolate place, it creates a perfect backdrop for the horror to unfold. You can then introduce the main character arriving at this place, perhaps on a dare or because they have no other choice, and the reader is already primed for something terrifying to happen.

You could also begin a story by introducing a unique or strange object. For example, 'In the middle of the table, there was a small, glowing box. No one knew where it came from or what it was for.' This object becomes a focal point and the reader will be interested in finding out more about it and how it relates to the rest of the story.

You could start with an exciting action scene to hook the readers right away.

One way is to start with a strong statement or thought from the narrator. For example, 'I knew from the moment I saw her that my life would never be the same.' This immediately grabs the reader's attention and gives a sense of the narrator's voice and perspective.

You could start with a thought or a feeling. Say, 'I felt a sense of dread wash over me as I entered the old, decrepit house.' This gives the reader an insight into your emotional state from the start. And also, starting with a dialogue that you are part of can be interesting. 'I said, "I'm not going in there," but my friends just laughed and pushed me forward.'

Use a story that creates suspense. For instance, start with a story about a mystery that was finally solved. This hooks the audience as they'll be eager to know how it all unfolded. It makes them listen attentively to your speech to find out more.

Begin with a conflict. For instance, two characters arguing over a valuable item. It creates instant tension.

One way could be to start with a captivating opening line that hooks the reader's attention right away.