How to end a scary story with a cliffhanger?

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.

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.

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.

You can leave a key event unresolved or introduce a sudden twist right at the end. Make the reader eager to know what happens next.

You might end a story with a character receiving a mysterious letter that hints at a big secret, but not reveal what's in it. This leaves readers eager to know more. Like a detective getting a note that could solve the case but we don't get to see the contents.

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.

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.

Once I got a text that said 'I'm watching you from the attic.' I live alone. I nervously looked up at the attic hatch. Heart pounding, I grabbed a flashlight and slowly climbed the stairs. But when I opened the hatch, there was nothing there. Then my phone buzzed again, 'You can't escape me.' It was so creepy.

Using short, cryptic messages helps build suspense. If the text says 'It's coming for you' but doesn't say what 'it' is. You start to imagine all sorts of scary things. And when the messages keep coming at intervals, like waiting for the next one, it keeps the tension high. For instance, you get one text in the morning and have to wait all day for the next one, constantly on edge.

Sure, you can. It leaves the readers wanting more and can make the story more memorable.