Begin with a sense of unease. Maybe start with a character experiencing strange noises or unexplained events in their normal, everyday surroundings. This builds mystery and draws the reader in. For example, a person hears scratching at their window at night when they live on the top floor.
First, think about the themes that scare you or are common in horror, like the supernatural or psychological horror. Then, start by reading classic horror stories. For example, works by Edgar Allan Poe can give you a good idea of how to build suspense and create a spooky atmosphere.
When starting a horror story, you need to hook the reader immediately. One way is to introduce a mystery or a sense of danger. You could start with a character waking up in a strange place, not knowing how they got there, and with a feeling that something is very wrong. Then gradually build up the horror by introducing more elements like strange shadows or a feeling of being watched.
To start a good horror story, think of an eerie atmosphere. Like a foggy town with old legends. And have a normal person stumble upon something terrifying that they can't explain. That'll hook your readers.
Well, start by coming up with a creepy idea or concept. Maybe it's a haunted house, a mysterious monster, or a cursed object. Then, think about the setting and the characters who will be involved in the horror.