Creating suspense is an art form that requires practice and dedication to master. Writers can use a variety of techniques to build suspense in any type of story. From letting readers see all sides of the story to ending each chapter with a cliffhanger, there are many ways to keep readers engaged and curious. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore five of the most effective ways authors create suspense.
One of the best ways to create suspense is to present a dramatic question and promise the answer. For example, in The Sixth Sense, the question is: “Can Bruce Willis help Haley Joel Osment with her madness?” Of course, as soon as we know the truth that Bruce is really dead, we can look back and see all the clues and omens throughout the story. Another great way to create suspense is to end each chapter with a cliffhanger. This will leave readers wanting more and eager to find out what happens next.
Additionally, you can create suspense around anything that arouses readers' curiosity, such as a love triangle or a murderer on the loose. To create a powerful suspense, make your hero face his greatest fear and risk losing what matters most to him. This will create a growing suspense until the climax, in which the hero's goal or problem is resolved. Posing a good dramatic question in the minds of your readers is also an effective way to create suspense and keep people reading.
By using these five techniques, authors can craft stories that keep readers engaged and eager to find out what happens next.
