Begin with an ordinary day. For example, describe a character waking up, going about their normal routine like making coffee or getting ready for work. Then, introduce something subtly off, like a strange noise in the distance or an odd smell. This builds suspense as the reader is lured into a normal situation that's about to turn into a zombie nightmare.
Start with a character who is already in a bit of a difficult situation, like being lost in the woods or stranded on a lonely road at night. Then, start to introduce the first signs of the zombie apocalypse. The character could hear strange growls or see something moving in the shadows. This way, the reader is immediately thrust into a tense and uncertain situation, and they'll be eager to see how the character copes with the emerging zombie threat.
You could start with a flashback. Show a moment in the past that is somehow related to the coming zombie outbreak. For instance, a scientific experiment gone wrong that the character witnessed years ago. This gives depth to the story and makes the reader curious about how it all connects to the present zombie situation.
One great way to start a story is with an interesting character in an unusual situation. For example, 'There was a man who woke up one morning to find his house had disappeared overnight.' This immediately grabs the reader's attention and makes them wonder what will happen next.
Begin with a dialogue. For example, '“You can't be serious,” she said, her eyes wide with disbelief.' It makes the story feel immediate and alive. The reader is plunged right into the action and wants to know what the conversation is about.
One great way to start a story is with a captivating hook. It could be an interesting question, like 'Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live in a world without colors?' or a shocking statement such as 'The day the world ended, no one saw it coming.' This immediately grabs the reader's attention and makes them want to read more.
One great way is to have the last remaining survivors find a safe haven. For example, they could discover an island that is zombie - free. They start building a new community there, with hope for the future. It gives a sense of closure as the threat of zombies is left behind and they can focus on rebuilding civilization.
One of the best ways to start a mystery story is with an intriguing event. For example, a strange disappearance. You can begin by describing the scene where a character vanishes without a trace. The suddenness and mystery of it will immediately hook the reader. It makes them wonder what happened and why, creating an instant sense of curiosity that will drive them to keep reading.
I don't think there is a universal best way. A good start for a historical fiction could be 'In the year 1812, as the war drums beat across the land...' which grounds the story in time and place. But for a contemporary coming - of - age story, you could start with a relatable teen moment like 'I was standing in the school hallway, my heart pounding as I waited for the results of the test.' Different stories require different beginnings to engage their intended audiences.
Beginning with a miscommunication can be really funny. Say something like 'I thought my friend said we were going to a 'zoo party', so I showed up in a full-on zebra costume, only to find out it was a 'juice party'. Everyone was just sipping on smoothies while I looked like I escaped from the safari.'