An ending that makes the reader think deeply is effective. Like leaving a question open - ended but in a thought - provoking way. For example, a story about a person making a difficult moral choice could end with the question of whether they made the right one, and the reader is left to debate it in their mind long after they've finished reading.
You can end it with a powerful image. Say, a lone figure standing on a cliff as the sun sets, which can symbolize many things like new beginnings or solitude. It allows the reader to interpret it in their own way and gives a sense of finality.
End it with a time - jump. Show how the events of the ghost story have affected the main character in the long run. Maybe years later, they still get a shiver down their spine when they think about it, but they have also learned to live with the memory. It gives a sense of how deeply the ghost story has impacted them.
As the sun peeked through the clouds, it seemed like the end of the horror. But the mark on his wrist, a sign of the demon's touch, started to burn. It was a reminder that evil never sleeps.
Another good conclusion could be that the world is reset in a way. The zombies and humans both disappear, and a new species emerges. It could be a more evolved form of life that has learned from the mistakes of the past. This would be a very thought - provoking end to a zombie story.
One way could be to start with a captivating opening line that hooks the reader's attention right away.
Use a simple but spooky premise. For example, a doll that moves on its own. Then, build on that with a slow - building tension. Make the reader wonder what's going to happen next. Add in some jump scares, like a sudden noise or a face appearing in the window. And keep the story short and concise so the horror doesn't get diluted.
You can create a simple plot with a conflict that forces the characters to make difficult decisions. Through these decisions, reveal the moral gradually. Also, use vivid descriptions to make the story engaging and the moral more impactful.
You can look for words or phrases that explain the meaning of unfamiliar words. Also, pay attention to examples or comparisons that help clarify.
A good ending can also be a cliffhanger if you are planning a sequel. For instance, the main character is about to face a huge, unknown danger at the end. It leaves the readers eager for more. However, it's important to note that not all stories can have a cliffhanger ending. It depends on the genre and the overall feel of the story.
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.
Tell the story to someone else. This forces you to organize your thoughts and recall all the details. You might even discover parts that you didn't remember clearly before, and this process of retelling helps solidify the story in your memory.