To keep a story suspenseful without telling the end, use foreshadowing in a subtle way. Drop hints about future events but make them so that they could be interpreted in different ways. For example, a character mentions seeing a strange shadow in an old house, but it could be just their imagination or something more sinister. Also, build up the atmosphere. If it's a horror story, describe the spooky environment in detail without giving away what will ultimately happen in that environment. Make the readers feel as if they are in the story, constantly on edge.
One way is to introduce new and unexpected elements throughout the story. For example, just when the reader thinks the protagonist is about to solve a problem, a new and more difficult obstacle pops up. Another way is to leave some details ambiguous. Don't be too specific about a character's motives or a situation's background. This makes the reader keep guessing. Also, use cliffhangers at the end of chapters or sections. For instance, end a chapter with the main character in a dangerous situation without revealing how they will get out of it.
One good way is to end with a sense of resolution. For example, in a mystery story, the detective finally reveals who the culprit is and how the crime was committed. This gives the reader a feeling of closure. Another way is with a moral or lesson. If it's a fable, the end could show what the characters learned from their experiences, like 'And so the little hare learned that overconfidence can lead to defeat.' A third way could be an open - ended finish that makes the reader think. Maybe the main character is about to embark on a new adventure, leaving the reader to wonder what will happen next.
You could reveal the mystery in a surprising way that leaves the readers stunned but satisfied. Make it a twist they never saw coming.
Changing the pace of the story is also a great technique. Have some fast - paced action scenes where things are happening quickly, and then slow down to explore the characters' emotions or backstories. This variation keeps the readers on their toes, as they are constantly adjusting to the different rhythms of the story. And all the while, they are still in the dark about the final outcome.
One good way is with a final, tragic death. For example, the protagonist, who has been haunted by the dark secrets of the old mansion throughout the story, finally succumbs to the evil forces within it. This gives a sense of inescapable doom which is typical in gothic stories.
Ending with a sense of unresolved mystery can be effective too. Maybe the source of the horror is never fully explained, like a strange noise in the attic that just stops, leaving the characters and the reader in a state of unease, wondering what it really was. This makes the horror linger in the reader's mind long after they've finished the story.
One good way is with a sudden disappearance of the ghost. For example, just as the main character is about to confront the ghost, it vanishes into thin air, leaving behind only a cold breeze. This creates a sense of mystery and unease.
Ending with a moment of self - realization can be great. Suppose a character has been very selfish throughout the story. At the end, they see how their actions have affected others and make a decision to change. This gives a feeling of growth and hope. You can write something like 'She looked at the mess she had made of people's lives and for the first time, she understood. She would be different from now on.'
You can end a story with a cliffhanger if you plan on writing a sequel. It keeps the readers interested and eager for more. However, this should be done carefully as it can also frustrate some readers if not handled well.
Another way is to end the love story with a sense of acceptance. The couple has faced many challenges and differences that they couldn't overcome. Instead of fighting or resenting each other, they accept that their love has run its course and part with a mutual understanding and respect.
Ending with a moment of self - discovery for the main character can be great. Let's say in a story about a lost young person, at the end, they finally figure out who they are and what they want in life. It gives a sense of closure and growth. It could be something like the character looking at their reflection and smiling, knowing they are on the right path now.