cliffhanger based on a true story

No, it's not. Cliffhanger is a fictional story created for entertainment purposes.

Another great one is 'Captain Phillips'. It tells the true story of a cargo ship captain whose ship is hijacked by Somali pirates. The intense stand - offs and the desperate attempts to survive create a real cliffhanger situation. The movie keeps you guessing about how the situation will be resolved right up to the end.

One way is to leave a key character in a dangerous or uncertain situation. For example, they could be on the verge of being discovered by the villain or facing a life-threatening challenge without showing the outcome immediately.

Sure it can! A cliffhanger ending leaves the reader or viewer wanting more and builds anticipation for a potential sequel or continuation.

I'm not sure specifically which 'cliffhanger not alone' you are referring to. It could be a story, a movie, or something else. Maybe it's about a person in a cliffhanger situation but not being alone, perhaps they have a companion or some form of support during a difficult or suspenseful event.

You could leave the main character in a dangerous or uncertain situation. For example, have them about to face a big threat but not show how it plays out.

Well, start by creating a situation that leaves the reader wanting more. Make it a mystery or a unresolved conflict that keeps them on the edge of their seat.

You might end it with the protagonist about to make a crucial decision that could have life or death consequences, but we don't know what they'll choose.

One way is to leave a major plot point unresolved right at a crucial moment. For example, have the protagonist face a sudden threat with an uncertain outcome.

Definitely! A short story ending in a cliffhanger can be very effective. It creates tension and leaves the reader wanting to know what happens next. But it should be done in a way that doesn't leave the reader frustrated or feeling cheated.