First, start with a captivating hook. It could be an interesting character, a strange situation, or a thought - provoking question. For example, start with a character who wakes up in a world where time has stopped. Then, develop your plot simply but effectively. Don't overcomplicate it for a short story.
Well, writing an engaging online short story involves several aspects. You need to have a clear theme. It could be about love, loss, or self - discovery. For instance, if your theme is self - discovery, your character could go on a journey, either literally or metaphorically. Then, use dialogue to move the story forward. Dialogue can bring your characters to life and show their relationships. Also, pay attention to the pacing. You don't want to rush through the story, but you also don't want to drag it out. Edit your story carefully to eliminate any unnecessary words or parts.
To write an engaging online short story, focus on creating relatable characters. Give them flaws and desires. Let's say your main character is a young artist who is desperate for recognition but is constantly rejected. Also, use vivid descriptions. Instead of just saying 'it was a dark room', say 'the room was a black void, swallowing all light that dared to enter'. And don't forget to end with a satisfying conclusion, whether it's a happy ending, a sad one, or a cliffhanger.