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.
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.
Introduce a new element or character at the very end that raises questions. Like a mysterious stranger showing up with no explanation of their motives.
Cliffhanger short stories often end on a suspenseful note. They leave the reader with a sense of anticipation, like a character in a dangerous situation and the outcome is not revealed. This makes the reader eager to know what will happen next.
First, start with an interesting premise. It could be a unique situation or a mysterious event. For example, a discovery of a strange object. Then, build the tension steadily throughout the story. Don't give away too much too soon.
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.