ways to start a sentence in creative writing

The Best Ways to Start a Sentence (With Examples)

Are you tired of choppy, disjointed writing that leaves your readers confused? Say goodbye to bland beginnings and hello to smooth transitions with the ultimate guide to sentence starters.

In this piece, we’ll break down the art of crafting killer opening lines, from when to use them to specific examples so you can learn all you need to know about writing the best sentence starters possible. Get ready to elevate your writing game and hook your readers from the get-go.

What is a sentence starter?

Sentence starters are the secret sauce that elevates your writing and keeps your readers engaged . These words or phrases that introduce the rest of the sentence, often set apart by commas, are crucial for creating a cohesive flow in your writing. They give your readers a preview of what’s to come and set the tone for the rest of the sentence, paragraph, and essay.

Without them, your work can come off as disjointed and choppy, making it hard for readers to follow along. They’re especially important in longer texts that cover multiple topics, as they help bridge the gap between ideas and smooth out jarring transitions.

Paragraph starters play a similar role, providing an organizational signpost to guide readers through your work. They’re particularly useful for nonfiction writing , where a variety of facts need to be presented in a unified manner. Without sentence and paragraph starters, nonfiction can come across as dry and uninteresting, believe me. But with the right phrasing, you can keep your readers engaged and help bring your writing to life.

Why Are Sentence Starters Important?

Sentence openers are the key to unlocking powerful, engaging writing. These words at the beginning of your sentence set the tone and direction for the rest of your sentence. Mastering the art of starting sentences isn’t easy, but with practice and effort, it can elevate your writing and make it more structured, flowing, and clear. In the end, by incorporating a variety of sentence openers in your writing, you can avoid monotony and keep your audience interested until the very end!

When Should You Use Sentence Starters?

Ultimately , there is no single rule for when to use sentence starters and when to avoid them . If you’r e unsure , take a second look at your sentences and see if they flow together nicely . If not , adding a sentence starter just might be  the answer!

Types of Sentence Starters

Starting a sentence in different ways can help better convey your message . Whether you’re new to sentence structure or working on a big project, there are common phrases and words that you’ll often see at the beginning of sentences. Here are a few examples:

Introducing the main topic in an essay

Phrases to conclude an essay, phrases to organize a list or sequence in writing.

Sentence starters are helpful for lists of instructions or explaining a series of events. These items may not be related in obvious ways, but sentence starters link them together and in the correct order so that the reader can understand them properly.

Phrases to show similarities in writing

Phrases to elaborate or add new points in writing, phrases to introduce examples in writing.

When writing essays, it’s important to use evidence to support your claims. Sentence starters make it easy to transition from explaining the general idea to providing specific examples.

Phrases to show contrasts and make abrupt transitions in writing

Phrases to show cause and effect relationship in writing, phrases to emphasize a point in writing.

In some cases, sentence starters aren’t necessary, but they can help make a point stand out. Use these for the sentences that you want your readers to remember most.

Phrases to cite references in writing

Phrases to provide historical or background context in writing, phrases to express uncertainty or doubt in writing.

When writing about facts, readers assume that everything you write is true. In situations where something is unproven or uncertain, it’s important to indicate that there’s room for doubt to avoid misinforming the reader.

Make your writing flow seamlessly

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Here are Some Really Good Sentence Starters for Creative Writing

So, your head is chock-a-block with ideas, and yet you're struggling to begin your story. No cause for worry, as it happens to most of us. Instead, read this Penlighten post - it has some amazing ideas to get your creative juices flowing.

So, your head is chock-a-block with ideas, and yet you’re struggling to begin your story. No cause for worry, as it happens to most of us. Instead, read this Penlighten post – it has some amazing ideas to get your creative juices flowing.

“The scariest moment is always just before you start.” ― Stephen King, On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft

Master storyteller that he is, Stephen King was gracious enough to admit that a writer tends to dread the moment when he actually begins writing any piece―this can be a bit of a make-or-break kind of a situation. A flying start tends to set the tone of the work, all positive, of course, whereas an unsure start only leads to the doomed path of redrafts.

You may have the entire concept of your story or essay in mind, but when it comes to the actual act of putting pen to paper, the enthusiasm tends to deflate a little. A rather strange phenomenon, this, and it wouldn’t be wrong to say that most writers, at some point, have encountered this experience.

To our fellow budding writers, we’re offering a helping hand by providing a few sample starts to get that creativity rolling, followed by a little inspiration from the stalwarts of the business.

Sample Sentence Starters for Fiction

Fiction writing is a boundless category, and each author has his preferred style of beginning a story or a novel. It is obvious that the beginning of a story depends on the overall plot, but there are times when you can use all the inspiration you need to get the start you were looking for. Therefore, we’ve included 5 ideas you can use in your starter, along with 3 examples for each.

Describe the weather

► The warm Californian sunshine hit her face as she stepped outside for the first time as a free woman.

► It had been raining nonstop for the past six days.

► The night sky was exceptionally clear tonight.

Introduce a character

► Daniel hated reunions and all the fake camaraderie.

► Edie Brent’s gruesome murder made it to the front page of the New York Times.

► Alison loved to keep secrets.

Talk about the city

► The streets of London come alive during the Holidays.

► Springtime is the best time to be in New York.

► Rio de Janeiro was where his dreams were.

Add a little suspense

► Walking home in the dead of the night was not new to Carol, but tonight felt different.

► The key clicked in the lock as Alan opened the door to his apartment. Everything seemed to be in place, and yet, something wasn’t right.

► It was 3 a. m. and there was no sign of Tim. He always called to tell if he was getting late. Why hadn’t he called?

And some drama

► How do you react when you’re told that you have a mere hours left to live?

► Prom queen and head cheerleader, Jessica always loved to be the center of attention.

► “Get the hell out of my life!”, screamed Karen at the top of her lungs.

Sentence Starters for Formal Essays

Middle school and high school students have to draft varied writing assignments, including persuasive essays, arguments, and narratives. In case of essays, particularly, the kind of start you make depends entirely on the topic at hand. However, formal essays or presentations need to begin in a certain manner. We’ve listed a few examples here:

► (The topic) has fostered a debate on …

► There is growing support for the notion that …

► The data gathered in the study strongly suggests that …

► The focus of discussion in this paper is …

► The premise of (the topic) seems to be based on …

► Latest research corroborates the view that …

Learn from the Greats

Who doesn’t seek inspiration from the masters of the field? Agreed, we all do. Therefore, we’ve brought you a list of the first sentences of some of the most iconic novels ever written.

It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife. ― Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice

All happy families are alike; each unhappy family is unhappy in its own way. ― Leo Tolstoy, Anna Karenina

It was a bright cold day in April, and the clocks were striking thirteen. ― George Orwell, Nineteen Eighty-Four

Call me Ishmael. ― J. M. Barrie, Peter Pan

Mr and Mrs Dursley, of number four, Privet Drive, were proud to say that they were perfectly normal, thank you very much. ― J. K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone

It was inevitable: the scent of bitter almonds always reminded him of the fate of unrequited love. ― Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Love in the Time of Cholera

These sample sentence starters ought to have helped you get over your dry spell. Getting the right start is crucial when it comes to creative writing, and you need to give it your all to bring it up to standard.

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Sentence Starters: Ultimate List to Improve Your Essays and Writing

By Ashley Shaw

This blog post is going to be about … No. Too boring.

Today, I am going to talk to you about ... No. Too specific.

This is a blog post for all writers ... Nope. Too generic.

Has this ever been you while writing? I get it. Writing a good sentence can be hard, and when you have to string a whole lot of them together, the task can become daunting. So what do you do?

From the first sentence you write to the very last, you want each one to show your style and motivate your reader to keep reading. In this post, we are going to think about how you start your sentences.

What Is a Good Sentence Starter for an Essay Introduction?

What is a good sentence starter for a body paragraph, 25 useful transitions, can i repeat a sentence starter, how can i rephrase "in conclusion".

The first paragraph of a paper can make or break your grade. It is what gets your audience into the topic and sets the whole stage. Because of this, it is important to get your readers hooked early.

The first sentence of a paper is often called the hook. It shouldn’t be anything ordinary. It should have strong language and be a little surprising, with an interesting fact, story, statistic, or quote on the topic.

Because it is designed to pull the reader in and surprise them a little, it is often good to avoid pre-written sentence starter examples when writing your hook. Just get into it here, and worry about the flow later.

Here are some examples:

Spider webs were once used as bandages.

I taught myself to read when I was three. At least, that’s the story my parents tell.

Recent studies suggest that the average person lies at least once in every conversation.

“The world is bleeding and humans wield the knife,” or so says environmental scientist So Andso.

(P.S. Except for example 1, which is true, I just made all of these up to demonstrate my point. So, please don’t quote me on these!)

Once you jump right in with your hook, it is time to start working on ways to move sentences along. Here is where you may need some sentence starter examples.

In your first paragraph, you basically want to connect your hook to your thesis. You’ll do this with a few sentences setting up the stage for your topic and the claim you will make about it. To do that, follow the tips found in the next section on body paragraphs and general sentence starter tips.

Many of the tips I am about to discuss can be used anywhere in a paper, but they are especially helpful when writing body paragraphs.

Let’s start with one of the most important types of sentence starter in essay writing: transition words.

How Do I Use Transitions in an Essay?

If you want to start writing terrific sentences (and improve your essay structure ), the first thing you should do is start using transition words.

Transition words are those words or phrases that help connect thoughts and ideas. They move one sentence or paragraph into another, and they make things feel less abrupt.

The good thing about transition words is that you probably know a lot of them already and currently use them in your speech. Now, you just need to transition them into your writing. (See what I did there?)

Before we get into examples of what a good transition word is, let’s look at a paragraph without any transitions:

I went to the store. I bought bacon and eggs. I saw someone I knew. I said hello. I went to the cashier. They checked me out. I paid. I got my groceries. I went to my car. I returned home.

Yikes! That is some boring writing. It was painful to write, and I am sure it is even worse to read. There are two reasons for this:

• I start every sentence with the same word (more on this later)
• There are no signposts showing me how the ideas in the paragraph connect.

In an essay, you need to show how each of your ideas relate to each other to build your argument. If you just make a series of statements one after the other, you’re not showing your instructor that you actually understand those statements, or your topic.

How do we fix this? Transition words. Roughly 25% of your sentences should start with a transition word. If you can hit that number in your essay, you’ll know that you’ve made meaningful steps towards demonstrating your understanding.

Of course, hitting that number isn’t enough—those transitions need to be meaningful. Let’s look at the different types of transitions and how you can use them.

What Are Words Like First , Next , and Last Called?

You probably already use some transitions in your essays. For example, if you start a paragraph with firstly , you’ve used a transition word. But transitions can do so much more!

Here are 25 common transitional words and phrases that you could use in your essay:

• Additionally / In Addition
• Alternatively / Conversely
• As a result of
• At this time
• Consequently
• Contrary to
• First(ly), Second(ly), etc.
• In contrast
• Nonetheless
• On the other hand
• Particularly / In particular
• In other words

This list isn’t exhaustive, but it is a good start.

These words show different types of relationships between ideas. These relationships fall into four main categories: Emphasis , Contrast , Addition , and Order .

What Are Emphasis Transition Words?

These phrases are used when you want to highlight a point. Examples from my above list include clearly , particularly , and indeed . Want to see some more? Follow my bolded transitions: Undoubtedly , you understand now. It should be noted that you don’t need to worry.

How Do You Use Addition Transitions?

These words add on to what you just said. These are words like along with , moreover , and also . Here are some more: Not only are you going to be great at transitions after this, but you will also be good at writing sentences. Furthermore , everyone is excited to see what you have to say.

How Can I Use Transitions to Contrast Ideas?

This is the opposite of addition, and you use it when you want to show an alternative view or to compare things. Examples from my list include words like nonetheless , contrary to , and besides .

Here are some more: Unlike people who haven’t read this article, you are going to be really prepared to write great sentences. Even so , there is still a lot more about writing to learn.

How Do I Order Ideas in My Essay?

A good first step is using order transition words.

This set of transitions helps mark the passage of time or gives an order to events. From the list, think of things like first and finally . Now for some extras: At this time yesterday , you were worried about starting sentences. Following this , though, you will be an expert.

Now that you get the concept of transitions, let’s go back to that poorly written paragraph above and add some in to see what happens:

This morning , I went to the store. While I was there, I bought bacon and eggs. Then I saw someone I knew. So I said hello. After that , I went to the cashier. At that time , they checked me out. First , I paid. Next , I got my groceries. Following that , I went to my car. Finally , I returned home.

(Notice the use of commas after most of these transitions!)

This isn’t the best paragraph I’ve ever written. It still needs a lot of work. However, notice what a difference just adding transitions makes. This is something simple but effective you can start doing to make your sentences better today.

If you want to check your transition usage, try ProWritingAid’s Transitions report . You’ll see how many of each type of transition word you've used so you can pin-point where you might be losing your reader.

Sign up for a free ProWritingAid account to try it out.

What Are Some Linking Phrases I Can Use in My Essay?

As well as individual words, you can also use short phrases at the beginning of your sentences to transition between ideas. I just did it there— "As well as individual words" shows you how this section of the article is related to the last.

Here are some more phrases like this:

As shown in the example,

As a result of this,

After the meeting,

While this may be true,

Though researchers suggest X,

Before the war began,

Until we answer this question,

Since we cannot assume this to be true,

While some may claim Y,

Because we know that Z is true,

These short phrases are called dependent clauses . See how they all end with a comma? That's because they need you to add more information to make them into complete sentences.

• While some may claim that chocolate is bad for you, data from a recent study suggests that it may have untapped health benefits .
• Since we cannot assume that test conditions were consistent, it is impossible to reach a solid conclusion via this experiment .
• As a result of this, critics disagree as to the symbolism of the yellow car in The Great Gatsby .

The bolded text in each example could stand on its own as a complete sentence. However, if we take away the first part of each sentence, we lose our connection to the other ideas in the essay.

These phrases are called dependent clauses : they depend on you adding another statement to the sentence to complete them. When you use a sentence starter phrase like the ones above in your writing, you signal that the new idea you have introduced completes (or disrupts) the idea before it.

Note: While some very short dependent clauses don’t need a comma, most do. Since it is not wrong to use one on even short ones (depending on the style guide being used), it is a good idea to include one every time.

Along with missing transitions and repeating sentence structure, another thing that stops sentences from being great is too much repetition. Keep your sentences sharp and poignant by mixing up word choices to start your sentences.

You might start your sentence with a great word, but then you use that same word 17 sentences in a row. After the first couple, your sentences don’t sound as great. So, whether it is varying the transitional phrases you use or just mixing up the sentence openers in general, putting in some variety will only improve your sentences.

ProWritingAid lets you know if you’ve used the same word repeatedly at the start of your sentences so you can change it.

The Repeats Report also shows you all of the repeats in your document. If you've used a sentence starter and then repeated it a couple of paragraphs down, the report will highlight it for you.

Try the Repeats Report with a free ProWritingAid account.

Now that you have your introduction sentences and body sentences taken care of, let’s talk a little about conclusion sentences. While you will still use transitions and clauses as in the body, there are some special considerations here.

Your conclusion is what people will remember most after they finish reading your paper. So, you want to make it stand out. Don’t just repeat yourself; tell them what they should do with what you just told them!

Use the tips from above, but also remember the following:

Be unique. Not only should you vary the words you use to start different sentences, but you should also think outside of the box. If you use the same conclusion sentence starter everyone else is using, your ideas will blend in too.

Be natural. Some of the best writing out there is writing that sounds natural. This goes for academic writing, too. While you won’t use phrases like "at the end of the day" in essay writing, stilted phrases like "in conclusion" can disrupt the flow you’ve created earlier on.

Here are some alternatives to "in conclusion" you could use in an essay:

• To review, ... (best for scientific papers where you need to restate your key points before making your final statement)
• As has been shown, ...
• In the final analysis, ...
• Taking everything into account, ...
• On the whole, ...
• Generally speaking, ...

If you’re looking for more ways to rephrase "in conclusion," take a look at our complete list of synonyms you can use.

There may not be a set word or words that you can use to make your sentences perfect. However, when you start using these tips, you’ll start to see noticeable improvement in your writing.

If you’ve ever heard people talk about pacing and flow in academic writing, and you have no idea what they mean or how to improve yours, then this is your answer. These tips will help your writing sound more natural, which is how you help your ideas flow.

Take your writing to the next level:

20 Editing Tips from Professional Writers

Whether you are writing a novel, essay, article, or email, good writing is an essential part of communicating your ideas., this guide contains the 20 most important writing tips and techniques from a wide range of professional writers..

Be confident about grammar

Check every email, essay, or story for grammar mistakes. Fix them before you press send.

Ashley Shaw

Ashley Shaw is a former editor and marketer/current PhD student and teacher. When she isn't studying con artists for her dissertation, she's thinking of new ways to help college students better understand and love the writing process.

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Creative Writing: 10 Ways to Write Better Sentences

Creative writing is a craft that takes time and effort to master. Whether you are a novelist, a poet, a screenwriter, or any other type of creative writer, your sentences are the building blocks of your work. They need to be both clear and engaging to hold your reader’s attention.

In this article, we will present you with ten different ways to write better sentences as a creative writer! So let’s begin.

1 Avoid Passive Voice

Passive voice is a common pitfall for many writers, and avoiding it is essential for creating engaging and impactful sentences.

In passive voice, the subject of the sentence is acted upon, rather than performing the action itself. This can create a sense of distance between the reader and the action, making the writing feel flat or uninspired.

For example, consider the difference between these two sentences:

Passive voice: The cake was eaten by Tom.

Active voice: Tom ate the cake.

The active voice sentence places the subject (Tom) at the center of the action, creating a sense of immediacy and urgency. Your writing will feel stronger if you focus on the person doing the action.

Of course, there may be some rare situations when you want to use passive voice purposefully, to create a certain effect. For example, passive voice can be used to emphasize the action or object being acted upon, rather than the person performing the action. This can be useful when the object is more important than the person performing the action.

For instance:

Passive voice: The painting was stolen from the museum.

Active voice: Someone stole the painting from the museum.

In this example, the passive voice emphasizes the painting as the object of the action, rather than the person who stole it.

How to identify passive voice

To identify passive voice, look for the use of “to be” verbs (such as “was,” “is,” or “were”) followed by a past participle verb (such as “eaten,” “stolen,” or “written”). To correct passive voice, simply switch the object and subject of the sentence or rephrase the sentence entirely to use active voice.

Passive voice: The report was written by Jane.

Active voice: Jane wrote the report.

By avoiding passive voice and focusing on active voice, you can create more dynamic, engaging, and memorable sentences that draw readers in and keep them engaged with your writing.

2 Cut Unnecessary Similes in Creative Writing

Similes are a great way to add descriptive language and make your writing more vivid and engaging. However, using too many or unnecessary similes can be distracting for readers. It can even come across as clichéd or overdone.

Here’s an example of unnecessary use:

“The sun rose over the mountains like a giant glowing orb.”

In this sentence, the simile does not add any additional information or create a new perspective on the sunrise. The reader already knows what the sun looks like and doesn’t need the added comparison to a giant glowing orb.

Instead, the writer could simply describe the sunrise in a way that feels fresh and evocative, such as:

“The sun slowly peeked over the jagged peaks, casting a golden glow over the landscape below.”

This description captures the beauty and majesty of the sunrise without relying on a clichéd simile.

While this simile may be effective in some contexts, in others it can seem overused and unoriginal. It’s important to consider the purpose of each simile and whether it truly adds to the meaning and impact of the sentence.

To avoid overusing similes, focus on using them only when they add something important to the writing. Similes can be particularly effective when they create a connection between something abstract and concrete, or when they provide a fresh perspective on something familiar.

For example: “She stood in the rain, feeling like a drowning flower in a sea of water.”

In this simile, the writer creates a vivid image of someone feeling overwhelmed and vulnerable in a way that feels impactful.

By cutting unnecessary similes and focusing on the ones that truly add value to your writing, you can create engaging sentences that capture your reader’s attention and hold it until the very end!

3 Avoid Complex Sentences

In writing, it’s essential to strike a balance between engaging your reader with rich and varied sentences and making sure your writing is easy to understand.

One common mistake is to cram too much information into a single sentence. When a sentence has too many clauses and phrases, it can become difficult to follow. Instead, aim for shorter sentences that communicate one idea at a time. This approach can help keep your writing clear and concise.

However, do not be afraid to vary your sentence length and structure! Mixing up sentence patterns can create a dynamic rhythm and keep readers engaged. Just make sure the meaning of each sentence is clear and easy to follow.

To identify and correct complex sentences, try reading your writing aloud. If you find yourself running out of breath or stumbling over words, it may be a sign that your sentences are too long or complicated. Break them down into shorter sentences that are easier to follow. Remember, your goal is to engage your reader while keeping your writing accessible. Strive for clarity , and use sentence complexity sparingly and intentionally.

In rare situations when a complex sentence is necessary, it’s important to ensure that each clause is clear and serves a distinct purpose. Using punctuation, such as commas or semicolons, can help break up complex sentences into more manageable chunks.

Here’s an example:

Complex Sentence: While I was walking in the park, I saw a group of children playing and laughing, and I couldn’t help but smile, remembering the carefree days of my own childhood.

Simplified Sentence: I saw children playing and laughing in the park and it made me smile, remembering my own carefree days.

In the simplified version, unnecessary details and clauses are removed, making the sentence easier to read and follow.

4 Avoid Body Parts Taking Action

Another common mistake that amateur writers often make is using body parts as the subjects of sentences.

For example, instead of saying “The hand grabbed the book,” it’s better to say “I grabbed the book,” or “He grabbed the book.”

This is important because it helps to create a stronger sense of agency and personal connection between the reader and the characters or narrator in the writing.

When body parts are used to take action, it can create a sense of detachment and objectivity that can be jarring to the reader. By using people as the subjects of your sentences, you can create a more engaging and emotionally resonant narrative that draws readers in and keeps them invested in the story.

So, next time you are writing a sentence, remember to keep the focus on the characters or narrators themselves, rather than on their body parts.

5 Avoid starting actions

Starting sentences with actions is a common habit among many writers. However, it can be an easy trap to fall into. Having a character start or begin actions, reduces the immediacy of the action and rarely enhances understanding.

For example:

“Anna started to smile ” is an example of a sentence that could be simplified and made more engaging by removing unnecessary words. Instead, you could simply say “Anna smiled.” Both will convey the same meaning. But, “Anna smiled” feels much stronger and more immediate.

By removing the unnecessary phrase “started to,” the sentence becomes more direct and impactful, putting the focus on the action itself rather than the build-up to it. This creates a stronger sense of immediacy and engagement, drawing the reader into the moment and making them feel more connected to Anna and the story as a whole.

When every sentence starts with an action, it can create a sense of monotony that can bore readers and make your writing feel flat. Instead, try varying the structure of your sentences to keep your writing interesting and engaging.

You could start with descriptive language , dialogue , or even a question to pique the reader’s interest and draw them into the story. By using a variety of sentence structures, create a more dynamic and compelling narrative – it will keep readers interested and invested.

6 Set the Tone with Word Choices

The words you choose to use in your creative writing can have a profound impact on the tone and mood of your piece. By carefully selecting the right words, you can create a sense of atmosphere and emotion that draws the reader into your story and helps to immerse them in your world. Whether you are aiming for a lighthearted and humorous tone, a dark and brooding atmosphere, or something in between, your word choices can help to set the tone and create the right emotional impact for your readers.

 •  The car crept down the narrow street.

 •  The car raced down the narrow street.

 •  The car meandered down the narrow street.

In the first sentence, the word “crept” creates a sense of caution and slowness, suggesting that the driver is navigating the street with care. In the second sentence, the word “raced” creates a sense of urgency and excitement, suggesting that the driver is in a hurry. In the third sentence, the word “meandered” creates a sense of leisure and relaxation, suggesting that the driver is taking their time and enjoying the scenery.

By choosing different words to describe the same action, you can create a wide range of impressions and moods in your writing, helping to set the tone and create a more engaging and immersive experience for your readers.

7 Remove Filtering

Filtering is a writing technique where the author uses words or phrases to “filter” the reader’s experience of the story, rather than allowing them to experience it directly. This can take the form of phrases like “I saw,” “I heard,” “I felt,” or “I thought,” which can create a sense of distance between the reader and the story, making it harder for them to become fully immersed in the world and the characters.

To create a more engaging and immersive reading experience, it is important to remove filtering from your writing as much as possible. Instead of telling the reader what the character saw or heard, show them the experience directly through sensory details and vivid descriptions.

For example, instead of saying “I heard a loud noise,” you could say “A deafening crash echoed through the room, making me jump in my seat.” By showing, rather than telling, you create a more engaging and immersive reading experience for your audience.

8 Reduce “was -ing” Construction

Using too many “was -ing” constructions in your writing can make sentences feel passive and unengaging, as it often emphasizes the action rather than the character performing the action. This can make your writing feel flat and lifeless, rather than dynamic and engaging.

To avoid this, reduce the use of “was -ing” constructions and instead opt for more active sentence structures. This can involve using stronger, more descriptive verbs, or reworking your sentences to put the emphasis on the character performing the action.

For example, consider these two sentences:

He was walking down the street.

He sauntered down the street.

In the first sentence, the “was -ing” construction makes the action feel passive and uninteresting. In the second sentence, however, the more descriptive verb “sauntered” creates a sense of purpose and intentionality, making the action feel more engaging and dynamic.

Focusing on more active sentence structures, you can create writing that feels more dynamic, engaging, and alive, helping to draw your readers into the story and keep them hooked.

9 Keep the Wording Natural

When writing, use language that feels natural and organic, rather than stiff or stilted. This means avoiding overly formal language or phrases that do not sound like something a real person would say.

One way to keep your wording natural is to read your writing aloud and listen for any phrases or sentences that feel awkward or clunky. You can also ask yourself if a real person would actually say the words you have written, or if they would use different phrasing or word choices.

“It is imperative that we arrive at the designated location by the appointed time.”

“We need to get there on time.”

The first sentence is overly formal and does not sound like something a real person would say in everyday conversation. The second sentence, on the other hand, is more natural and to the point.

10 Use of Vocabulary Level

A vocabulary level can be great for conveying characterization, values, etc. However, it is important to consider how the level of vocabulary impacts reading speed . More advanced vocabulary can slow down the reader, so it is important to use it strategically.

Different target reader groups may have different preferences for the pace of reading. Some readers enjoy savoring each word and reading at a slower pace, while others prefer a faster pace that keeps them engaged and moving through the text quickly. As a writer, you must consider the impact of your word choices on the reading speed and experience of your audience.

While it can be tempting to showcase your extensive vocabulary, try to use it in moderation and only when it adds value to the writing. Ultimately, your goal as a writer is to engage your audience and keep them interested in your story or message. Keeping your readers in mind when selecting your vocabulary can help ensure that your writing is effective and impactful.

Advanced vocabulary: The erudite professor began pontificating about the intricacies of the esoteric subject, inundating his audience with a plethora of abstruse terminology.

Simplified vocabulary: The knowledgeable professor started explaining the complexities of the obscure topic, using lots of difficult terms that were unfamiliar to most people.

Both sentences convey the same message, but the first one uses more advanced vocabulary that may slow down the reader. The second sentence uses simpler vocabulary that is easier to understand and moves the reader through the text more quickly.

Improving your sentence writing skills is a vital component of becoming a better writer. By using active voice, avoiding passive voice, cutting unnecessary similes, simplifying complex sentences, removing filtering, setting the pace with sentence length, and strategically using vocabulary level, you can create more engaging and impactful sentences and capture your readers’ attention.

Remember, the goal is not to impress with fancy words or convoluted phrasing. The goal is to effectively communicate your ideas and stories in a way that resonates with readers. Try following these ten tips. You will be on your way to crafting powerful, memorable sentences that elevate your writing to the next level!

Get Talking with These Sentence Starters: The Ultimate Guide

Sentence starters are an essential tool for anyone who wants to improve their writing skills. They are words or phrases that help to introduce the rest of the sentence, typically set apart by commas. The words that start a sentence are some of the most important in writing: They introduce what the sentence is about so the reader knows what to expect.

In this article, we will explore the benefits of using sentence starters in your writing. We will provide you with examples of sentence starters that you can use in your own writing, and we will explain how to use them effectively. Whether you are a student looking to improve your essay writing skills, or a professional looking to enhance your communication skills, this article will provide you with the tools you need to succeed.

Sentence Starters

What are sentence starters.

As the name would suggest, sentence starters are any words or phrases that can be used to perfectly start a sentence. Every sentence is different, so every sentence requires a different starter to really convey a meaning. A common sentence starter like “however” has a very specific purpose. You wouldn’t just be able to throw the word “however” into the first sentence of an essay, for example, because it wouldn’t be compared against anything.

However, it is a good idea to figure out when is the best time to use certain sentence starters to really add something extra to your writing. It will be what separates you from the rest of the crowd when you get a better understanding of how it should all work.

The Importance of Variety in Sentence Starters

When it comes to writing, sentence starters play a crucial role in grabbing the reader’s attention and conveying the message effectively. However, using the same sentence starters repeatedly can make the writing monotonous and dull, leading to a loss of interest from the reader. This is where the importance of variety in sentence starters comes into play.

Using a mixture of different sentence starters can keep the reader engaged and interested in the content. It also adds emphasis to important points in the text and makes the writing more lively and enjoyable to read.

Additionally, using a variety of sentence starters can help the writer to convey different emotions and tones in their writing. For example, using a rhetorical question as a sentence starter can create a sense of curiosity and make the reader think deeply about the topic. On the other hand, using a declarative sentence as a starter can convey a sense of confidence and authority.

To achieve variety in sentence starters, writers can use a combination of techniques such as varying the length and structure of sentences, using different types of phrases, and incorporating transitional words. By doing so, the writing becomes more dynamic and engaging, making the reader want to keep reading.

Types of Sentence Starters

When it comes to writing, it’s important to have a variety of sentence starters in your arsenal. Different types of sentence starters can help you achieve different effects in your writing. In this section, we’ll cover three types of sentence starters: conjunction starters, adverb starters, and prepositional phrase starters.

Conjunction Starters

Conjunction starters are words that are used to connect two ideas or thoughts. They can be used to show contrast, addition, or cause and effect. Some common conjunction starters include:

Adverb Starters

Adverb starters are words that modify the verb in a sentence. They can be used to describe how, when, where, or to what extent something is happening. Some common adverb starters include:

• Nevertheless
• Furthermore
• Additionally

Here are some examples of adverb starters in use:

• “However, he didn’t let that stop him from pursuing his dreams.”
• “Nevertheless, she persisted in her efforts to make a change.”
• “Furthermore, the study found that the results were consistent across all age groups.”
• “Therefore, it is important to take precautions to prevent the spread of the virus.”
• “Additionally, the report showed that there was a significant increase in sales.”

Prepositional Phrase Starters

Prepositional phrase starters are words that are used to describe the relationship between two things in a sentence. They can be used to show location, time, or direction. Some common prepositional phrase starters include:

Here are some examples of prepositional phrase starters in use:

• “In the morning, she always enjoyed a cup of coffee.”
• “On the way to work, he listened to his favorite podcast .”
• “At the party, she met some new friends.”
• “With a little practice, he became an expert at playing the guitar.”
• “By the end of the day, she was exhausted from all the work.”

Examples of Sentence Starters

When it comes to writing, sentence starters can be incredibly useful. They can help writers get their thoughts flowing, organize their ideas, and make their writing more engaging. In this section, we’ll take a look at some examples of sentence starters that can be used for different types of writing.

For Storytelling

When telling a story, it’s important to hook your readers from the very beginning. Here are some sentence starters that can be used to do just that:

• Once upon a time…
• It all started when…
• In a far-off land…
• Long ago and far away…
• Deep in the heart of…

These sentence starters can be used to set the scene and draw the reader in. Once you’ve hooked your reader, you can use the following sentence starters to move the story along:

• Suddenly…
• Just then…
• Meanwhile…
• Later that day…
• The next morning…

When writing an essay, it’s important to clearly state your argument and support it with evidence. Here are some sentence starters that can help you do just that:

• According to…
• In contrast…
• Similarly…
• On the other hand …
• For example …

These sentence starters can be used to introduce evidence and support your argument. Additionally, you can use the following sentence starters to transition between paragraphs:

• Moving on to…
• In conclusion …
• Taking a closer look…
• Another important point…
• It’s worth noting that…

For Business Writing

When writing for business, it’s important to be clear and concise. Here are some sentence starters that can help you achieve that:

• As previously mentioned…
• To summarize…
• In other words…
• To put it simply…
• The bottom line is…

These sentence starters can be used to summarize information and make your writing more concise. Additionally, you can use the following sentence starters to make requests or give instructions:

• I would appreciate it if…
• Please be advised that…
• Kindly note that…
• In order to…
• It is imperative that…

By using these sentence starters, you can make your business writing more effective and efficient.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When it comes to using sentence starters, there are some common mistakes that writers should avoid. Here are a few to keep in mind:

Overusing the Same Sentence Starter

One of the most common mistakes writers make is overusing the same sentence starter throughout their writing. While sentence starters can be helpful in guiding the reader through your writing, using the same one repeatedly can make your writing sound repetitive and monotonous. To avoid this, try using a variety of sentence starters throughout your writing.

Using Sentence Starters Incorrectly

Another mistake writers make is using sentence starters incorrectly. For example, beginning a sentence with “and” or “but” can be effective in some cases, but it’s important to use these words appropriately. Additionally, some sentence starters may not be appropriate for certain writing styles or contexts. Make sure to consider the tone and purpose of your writing before using a particular sentence starter.

Failing to Vary Sentence Structure

Using sentence starters can be a great way to vary sentence structure and keep your writing engaging. However, it’s important to also vary the structure of your sentences themselves. Using the same sentence structure repeatedly can make your writing sound dull and uninteresting. Try experimenting with different sentence structures to keep your writing fresh and engaging.

Neglecting Punctuation

Finally, it’s important to remember that sentence starters are just one aspect of good writing. Neglecting punctuation can make your writing difficult to understand and detract from its overall effectiveness. Make sure to use punctuation correctly and consistently throughout your writing.

By keeping these common mistakes in mind, writers can use sentence starters effectively to improve the flow and readability of their writing.

In conclusion, sentence starters are an essential tool that writers use to make their work more organized, coherent, and easy to read. They help to create a smooth flow of ideas and thoughts, making it easier for the reader to follow the writer’s argument or story.

Good sentence starters can be used in different types of writing, including essays, articles, research papers, and even fiction. They help to introduce new ideas, provide evidence, summarize key points, and make transitions between paragraphs and sections.

The use of sentence starters can also help to improve the quality of writing by making it more engaging and captivating. They can be used to create suspense, add emphasis, and convey emotions. Additionally, sentence starters can help to make writing more concise and clear, avoiding ambiguity and confusion.

Overall, using sentence starters is an effective way to improve the quality of writing and make it more organized, coherent, and engaging. Whether you are a student, a professional writer, or someone who enjoys writing for fun, incorporating sentence starters into your work can help you achieve your writing goals and captivate your audience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some effective ways to start a sentence?

There are many effective ways to start a sentence, but it all depends on the context and purpose of your writing. Some common ways to start a sentence include using transitional words and phrases, such as “however,” “in addition,” or “meanwhile,” or starting with a strong subject or action verb. You can also use rhetorical questions, quotes, or interesting facts to grab the reader’s attention and set the tone for your writing.

How can sentence starters be used in persuasive writing?

Sentence starters can be very useful in persuasive writing because they can help you introduce your argument and provide evidence to support it. Some effective sentence starters for persuasive writing include “it is clear that,” “research shows that,” or “experts agree that.” These types of sentence starters can help you establish credibility and persuade your reader to agree with your point of view.

What are some common transition sentence starters?

Common transition sentence starters include “however,” “in addition,” “meanwhile,” “therefore,” and “consequently.” These words and phrases can help you connect ideas and create a smooth flow between sentences and paragraphs.

What are some sentence starters for creative writing?

Creative writing often requires more varied and imaginative sentence starters to create a unique and engaging story. Some examples of sentence starters for creative writing include “once upon a time,” “suddenly,” “in a far-off land,” or “the world was never the same again.” These types of sentence starters can help you set the scene, create suspense, or introduce a new character or plot twist.

How can sentence starters be used in speaking?

Sentence starters can be very useful in speaking because they can help you organize your thoughts and communicate your ideas more effectively. Some effective sentence starters for speaking include “I believe that,” “in my opinion,” or “from my experience.” These types of sentence starters can help you express your ideas clearly and confidently.

What are some sentence starters for providing evidence?

When providing evidence to support your argument, it’s important to use sentence starters that clearly indicate the source and relevance of your evidence. Some effective sentence starters for providing evidence include “according to,” “as demonstrated by,” or “for example.” These types of sentence starters can help you present your evidence in a clear and convincing way.

Last Updated on August 9, 2023

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Your Inner Author – 350+ Sentence Starters for Creative Writing

Have you ever stared at a blank page, itching to write a story but unsure where to begin? Fret no more! Sentence starters are like magic keys, unlocking the door to creative writing for all ages and skill levels.

This guide will equip you with a toolbox of starters for different situations, helping you craft captivating stories and essays.

Different Types of Sentence Starters for Writing – For Adults and Kids

Here we gonna list different types of sentence starters for creative writing. Lets see –

1/ Sentence starters for creative writing for different age groups (KS1, KS2, KS3, adults, high school)

Creative writing is a fantastic way to express your thoughts, feelings, and imagination through words.

It’s an art that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, from young children to adults. Let’s explore some sentence starters specifically crafted for different age groups:

Key Stage 1 (KS1) : Ages 5-7

Key Stage 2 (KS2): Ages 7-11

Key Stage 3 (KS3): Ages 11-14

Sentence starters for third grade.

For Adults and High School Students

These sentence starters are just a glimpse into the vast world of creative writing. Feel free to mix and match them, adapt them to your own style, and let your imagination run wild!

Adverb Sentence Starters

2/ Sentence starters for different perspectives (first person, third person)

Writing in the first person allows the writer to narrate the story from their own point of view, using “I” and “we.”

This perspective can create a deep connection between the narrator and the reader. Here are some examples of sentence starters for first-person creative writing:

Third Person Perspective

Writing in the third person provides a broader perspective, using “he,” “she,” “it,” and “they.” This can offer a more objective view of the story and its characters. Here are some examples of sentence starters for third-person creative writing:

These sentence starters can serve as a springboard for your creative writing, whether you’re aiming to write from an intimate, personal perspective or a more detached, omniscient one.

Feel free to use them as inspiration and adapt them to fit your unique storytelling voice.

3/ Sentence starters for essays and introductions

Writing an essay can be challenging, but starting with a strong opening sentence can set the tone for the entire piece.

A good introduction not only engages the reader but also provides a clear overview of the topic. Here are some examples of sentence starters for essays and introductions:

Sentence starters for General Essay Introductions

Introduction paragraphs.

Body Paragraph Starters

Sentence starters for evidence and reasoning, concluding paragraph starters.

4/ Sentence Starters for Writing Prompts and Story Starters

Writing prompts and story starters are great tools to ignite creativity and inspire writers to embark on new storytelling journeys.

They provide a jumping-off point for exploration and imagination. Here are some examples of sentence starters for writing prompts and story starters:

Writing Prompts

Sentences for Story Starters

5/ Character Introductions Sentence Starters

6/ Dialogue Starters Sentence’s

7/ Sentence starters for writing a summary or article

Summarizing information or writing an article requires clarity, coherence, and conciseness.

Effective sentence starters can help you transition smoothly between ideas and maintain the reader’s interest. Here are some examples:

Writing a Summary

Writing an Article

Introducing Ideas

Providing Evidence

Concluding Ideas

These sentence starters can help you structure your summary or article effectively, ensuring that your ideas flow logically and cohesively. Feel free to adapt them to fit the specific content and tone of your writing.

8/ Sentence Starters For Writing A Letter

Below are some sentence starters for writing a letter –

Beginning a Letter

Expressing Gratitude

Sharing News

Expressing Sympathy

Closing a Letter

Closing letter sentence starters.

Sentence Starters For Love Letters

9/ Sentence Starters For Conversation

10/ Sentence Starters For Texting

11/ Sentence Starters For Books

12/ Argument Writing Sentence Starters

Final Lines

So, we covered a comprehensive list of sentence starters for creative writing in this article.

If you need more, please leave your request in the comment box. We will create more sentence starters for you!

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How to Start a Sentence: 8 Creative Ways to Begin Your Writing

By Happy Sharer

Introduction

Starting a sentence can be one of the most difficult parts of writing. Many people struggle to come up with something that is engaging and captures the reader’s attention. Fortunately, there are some simple strategies that can help you craft an effective beginning to any sentence. This article will explore eight different techniques that you can use to start a sentence in an interesting and engaging way.

Begin with a Strong Verb

Using a strong verb is one of the best ways to start a sentence. Verbs are the action words that give life to your writing, so it’s important to choose ones that are powerful and descriptive. For example, instead of saying “He walked into the room,” you could say “He strutted into the room.” By using a more descriptive verb, you can create a vivid image for the reader and make your writing more engaging.

Some examples of strong verbs include “soar,” “gleam,” “plunge,” “burst,” and “cascade.” You can also try using verbs that convey emotion, such as “smile,” “laugh,” “frown,” or “whisper.” Experiment with different verbs to find the right one for your sentence.

Use an Interesting Adjective

Adjectives can be a great way to start a sentence because they can add color and detail to your writing. A well-chosen adjective can help set the tone for the rest of the sentence and draw the reader in. For example, instead of saying “She was happy,” you could say “She was ecstatic.” This one word conveys a much stronger emotion than the first sentence and helps the reader better understand the character’s feelings.

Some interesting adjectives include “bewildering,” “enigmatic,” “majestic,” “gleaming,” and “celestial.” You can also look for adjectives that describe sounds, such as “deafening” or “hushed.” When selecting an adjective, make sure that it fits the context of the sentence and accurately describes what you’re trying to convey.

Start with a Quote

Quotes can be a great way to start a sentence because they can provide insight into the topic at hand. Quotes can also help to set the tone for the rest of the sentence and provide an interesting starting point for your writing. For example, instead of saying “Life is hard,” you could say “As Mahatma Gandhi said, ‘Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will.'” This quote provides a deeper meaning to the sentence and adds a layer of complexity.

When selecting a quote, make sure that it is relevant to the topic and that it accurately reflects your own views. Some good quotes to consider include “The only way to do great work is to love what you do” (Steve Jobs), “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams” (Eleanor Roosevelt), and “It always seems impossible until it’s done” (Nelson Mandela).

Use a Simile or Metaphor

Similes and metaphors can be a great way to start a sentence because they can help to paint a vivid picture for the reader. These figures of speech can also help to add depth and complexity to your writing. For example, instead of saying “Her voice was soft,” you could say “Her voice was like a gentle breeze.” This simile helps to create a more vivid image in the reader’s mind and gives the sentence more depth.

When selecting a simile or metaphor, make sure that it accurately describes what you’re trying to convey. Some good examples include “her eyes were fireflies” (simile), “the sky was a canvas of stars” (metaphor), and “his laugh was thunder” (simile).

Ask a Question

Asking a question can be an effective way to start a sentence because it can help to engage the reader and encourage them to think about the topic. Questions can also help to spark a conversation and lead to further exploration. For example, instead of saying “We need to find a solution,” you could say “What solutions can we find?” This question encourages the reader to reflect on the issue and think of potential solutions.

When crafting a question, make sure that it is open-ended and thought-provoking. Some examples include “How can we make a difference?” “What does success mean to you?” and “What would you do if you had the power to change the world?”

Use an Idiom or Phrase

Idioms and phrases can be a great way to start a sentence because they can add humor and creativity to your writing. These expressions can also help to make your writing more relatable and engaging. For example, instead of saying “We need to act quickly,” you could say “Time is of the essence.” This phrase adds a layer of complexity to the sentence and helps to capture the reader’s attention.

When selecting an idiom or phrase, make sure that it fits the context of the sentence and accurately conveys your message. Some examples include “Actions speak louder than words,” “Easy does it,” and “Every cloud has a silver lining.”

Starting a sentence can be a challenge, but by using the strategies outlined in this article, you can craft an effective beginning to any sentence. From using strong verbs to asking interesting questions, these tips will help you get started. So don’t be afraid to experiment with different sentence starters and find the one that works best for you.

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Hi, I'm Happy Sharer and I love sharing interesting and useful knowledge with others. I have a passion for learning and enjoy explaining complex concepts in a simple way.

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10 Ways to Start a Sentence in English

Published on, february 24, 2022, november 15, 2022, this article may contain affiliate links.

Using sentence starters is an easy way to lift your English to the next level. We will give you ten categories of sentence starters that are simple to use, explain each one, and provide you with plenty of examples. You can use them straight away!

Table of contents

As your English gets better and you begin to speak more confidently , you can choose new language goals. 

A good goal for intermediate and upper-intermediate speakers of English is to become more expressive (use more precise and complex language to explain things). But how?

To see one method, compare Marco and Pierre in these two exchanges.

Gordon: How is my chicken soup? Do you like it? Marco: It’s nice.

Gordon: How is my chicken soup? Do you like it? Pierre: Without a doubt, it’s the best chicken soup I’ve ever had.

We can see that Pierre is more expressive. Let’s analyse how he expressed himself:

Weak statement: It’s nice . Stronger statement: It’s the best . Even stronger statement: It’s the best chicken soup I’ve ever had . Even stronger statement: Without a doubt , it’s the best chicken soup I’ve ever had.

We can make a statement stronger by using stronger words, such as best instead of nice . We can also make a statement stronger by adding blocks of language to the beginning or end of a sentence.

Here, we will look at adding blocks of language to the beginning of a sentence. We will call these sentence starters .

What are the benefits of sentence starters?

Sentence starters can make your English more expressive. However, this is not the only benefit.

When you speak, a sentence starter indicates what you are going to say next. It prepares the listener to understand better.

For example, if you begin a sentence with “for example”, it clearly signals to the listener that you are going to explain an example.

This is a key skill in giving presentations, where it is sometimes called signposting .

Another benefit of using sentence starters is that it will make your English more natural. Native speakers use sentence starters all the time. 

Are sentence starters only for spoken English?

Sentence starters are NOT only for spoken English. When writing an essay, for instance, we often use words such as first , second , third and finally .

These simple sentence starters help the reader to better understand the structure of your writing.

If you are taking an exam, such as the IELTS , sentence starters show the examiner that you are able to structure your ideas in writing.

Ten sentence starters that you can use right now

Without further ado, let’s see ten sentence starters that you can use right away.

Every example shown here is suitable for both spoken or written English.

1 Adverbs of viewpoint

An adverb of viewpoint is simply an adverb that we place at the beginning of a sentence. It shows how we feel or explains our viewpoint about something.

Some examples are honestly , fortunately , unfortunately , basically , personally , obviously and clearly .

Example: Fortunately , the King didn’t eat the poisoned soup.

The word fortunately shows that we think it is a good thing that the King was not poisoned. On the other hand, imagine that we hate the King. We could say:

Unfortunately , the King didn’t eat the poisoned soup.

Notice how easy it is to use these adverbs of viewpoint. You simply add them to the beginning of a sentence.

2 With and without

A nice way to begin a sentence is using with or without :

Example 1: Without you , my life is meaningless!

Example 2: With the help of my friends , I was able to complete the project.

Many English learners use with and without at the end of a sentence . Why not change things up and use these words as sentence starters?

3 After/before + ING

Many English learners don’t realise that you can shorten a clause with after or before , like this:

Original sentence: After I ate, I washed the dishes. Shortened sentence: After eating , I washed the dishes.

Original sentence: Before she left, Laura locked the door. Shortened sentence: Before leaving , Laura locked the door.

When used in this way, it becomes a sentence starter.

4 Like and unlike

We can show similarity or dissimilarity by starting a sentence with like or unlike :

Example 1: Like me , George grew up in a poor family.

Example 2: Unlike me , Jacob was born into a rich family.

Again, note how easy it is to use these words.

Despite is used to show a surprising outcome:

Example 1: Despite winning the lottery , George was unhappy.

Example 2: Despite her good looks , she never got married.

There are two possible sentence structures. We can use an -ING verb (example 1) or we can use a noun/noun phrase (example 2).

Let’s see another example of each sentence type:

Example 3: Despite having four wives , Ahmad had no children.

Example 4: Despite his wealth , Charles lived in a small house.

6 According to

According to is a useful way to reference where we got our information:

Example 1: According to my aunt , chocolate can be poisonous to dogs.

Example 2: According to government statistics , 10% of people under 25 are unemployed.

By the way, did you notice that we always use a comma after a sentence starter? If so, well done! You have an eagle eye .

(If you have an eagle eye, you will also have noticed the sentence starters ‘ by the way ’ and ‘ if so ’.)

7 For instance

Every English learner knows to say ‘ for example ’ when you wish to explain an example. Why not be a little different and show off your vocabulary at the same time?

For instance means exactly the same thing as for example and we use it in the same  way:

Example: There are many activities you can do at the Sunnyview Resort. For instance , you can go hiking in the mountains.

8 As a result

In writing, we often need to explain cause and effect relationships. As a result is a great sentence starter for these kinds of sentences:

Example: The government raised the speed limit on the main highway. As a result , the number of accidents increased.

This sentence starter clearly defines the relationship between the two sentences. This makes it easier for the reader/listener to understand..

9 Every once in a while

Many sentence starters describe time and frequency.

Most English learners are familiar with usually , occasionally , sometimes , often and always . But what about every once in a while , every now and then and once in a blue moon ?

These are all more expressive ways to say ‘occasionally’:

Example 1: Every once in a while , I go surfing.

Example 2: Every now and then , Sandra bakes cookies for everyone.

Example 3: Once in a blue moon , George actually tells a funny joke.

10 Without a doubt

The first example we covered was without a doubt . It shows certainty and makes a statement stronger:

Example: Without a doubt , this is a very dangerous road.

We can also use undoubtedly , unquestionably or undeniably :

Example: Undoubtedly , Cambridge is a prestigious university.

A little language hack

Before we continue, here is a little language ‘hack’ for you: most of these sentence starters can also go at the end of a sentence!

Here are some examples:

This is a very dangerous road, without a doubt . 10% of people under 25 are unemployed, according to government statistics . George was unhappy despite winning the lottery . Jacob was born into a rich family, unlike me .

Although these phrases can go at either the start or end of a sentence, it is often better to put them at the start. This is because you give the listener or reader information about your statement before you say it.

Strategies for using sentence starters

We have seen how sentence starters can:

• Help express opinions
• Make statements stronger
• Better structure writing and presentations
• Show relationships between sentences
• Show time relationships
• Express a point of view about a statement

They do all of these things and more. This is why it is so important to know and use a collection of sentence starters. But how can you do this?

First of all, get a notebook and reserve a page for writing down sentence starters (as you would do with new vocabulary).

Next, build your list by watching out for sentence starters when you read and when you listen. (You can start your list with the sentence starters in this article.)

Finally, try out your new sentence starters in your own spoken and written English.

What are good sources to find sentence starters?

Really…anywhere. Sentence starters are very common.

If you love reading, you can find them in both fiction and non-fiction.

As for spoken English. Look for listening activities where a transcript is available. These include podcasts, including English Learning for Curious Minds , TED talks , and YouTube videos.

I recommend learning sentence starters from podcasts and TED talks. You will be able to both read and hear sentence starters used in context and you will feel more confident to use them yourself.

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14 Great Ways to Start a Sentence & Improve Your Writing

Last Updated: July 22, 2024 Fact Checked

• Importance of Sentence Starters
• Choosing a Sentence Starter

Expert Interview

This article was co-authored by Richard Perkins and by wikiHow staff writer, Ali Garbacz, B.A. . Richard Perkins is a Writing Coach, Academic English Coordinator, and the Founder of PLC Learning Center. With over 24 years of education experience, he gives teachers tools to teach writing to students and works with elementary to university level students to become proficient, confident writers. Richard is a fellow at the National Writing Project. As a teacher leader and consultant at California State University Long Beach's Global Education Project, Mr. Perkins creates and presents teacher workshops that integrate the U.N.'s 17 Sustainable Development Goals in the K-12 curriculum. He holds a BA in Communications and TV from The University of Southern California and an MEd from California State University Dominguez Hills. There are 21 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 14,488 times.

The start of your sentence is the very first thing that will reach out and grab your readers’ attention. But there are so many ways to start a sentence, how can you know which one to choose? Don’t worry, that’s why we’re here! Whether you’re an ESL student wanting to master the very basics or an English major looking to improve their writing skills, we’re here to introduce you to all the different ways to start a sentence. We’ll also be sure to provide you with tons of examples as we walk through different types of "sentence starters." By the time you’re done reading, you’ll be ready to add some flair to your next piece of writing.

Things You Should Know

• Use sentence starters such as, “Similarly…” “However…” and “Like…” and “Unlike…” to show readers that you’re about to compare or contrast something in your sentence.
• Introduce new information by using sentence starters such as, “Additionally…” “Furthermore…” and “More importantly…”
• Emphasize your point or main idea by starting your sentence with phrases like, “Certainly…” “Of course…” and “Obviously…”

Why are sentence starters important?

• Sentence starters are typically set apart from the rest of the sentence by a comma.
• Sentence starters also provide key details that provide readers with important context or background information.
• For example, in the sentence, “Gasping for breath, John trudged up the hill,” the sentence starter “Gasping for breath” provides readers with more details about John’s state.
• Using a variety of sentence starters is a great way to keep your writing from sounding too repetitive.

How You Can Use Sentence Starters

• In this essay, I will discuss the pros and cons of using disposable plastic water bottles.
• Below, you will find a three-point argument that seeks to persuade you that smoking is bad.
• Here, I will attempt to argue for the continuation of standardized testing.
• This essay discusses…
• The key aspect discussed…
• I plan to emphasize…

• In conclusion, we need to stop using plastic bags for the sake of preserving wildlife.
• Therefore, I urge all of you to talk to your local politicians about this law.
• In summary, the experiment yielded extremely positive results.
• To summarize…
• All things considered…

• First, preheat your oven to 350ºF (176ºC). Next, lightly grease your cake pan with butter or oil.
• First, I met up with my friends at the nearby cafe. After that, we drove to the party.
• After doing a short survey, the participants were asked to leave the room.
• Eventually…
• Afterwards…
• Sometime later…

• Similarly, not getting enough sleep has also been linked to people feeling more stressed.
• Along those same lines, starting to study for an exam earlier will help you get a better score.
• Like fish, rats are extremely low-maintenance pets.
• In the same way…

• However, the movie also received some criticism from older viewers.
• On the other hand, nuclear energy might actually be better for the environment than solar energy.
• Then again, the exact opposite might be true.
• Unlike my sister, my brother enjoys studying math.
• Despite this…

• In addition to that, sitting for too long has also been shown to be bad for a person’s health.
• Furthermore, several studies have supported this claim.
• Additionally, I’m going to record some video trainings to help new employees.
• As well as…
• Equally important…

• At 6:00 p.m., he went to the dining hall to eat with his friends.
• In the middle of winter, a flower unexpectedly bloomed.
• At the back of the room, the girl talked loudly with her friends.
• Near the edge of the woods, the dog spotted a fox.

• There are plenty of hobbies you can try. For example, baking is great if you love to cook.
• For instance, you could try making a pros and cons list to find the best solution.
• Specifically, they decided to pass the law once a majority of people had voted in favor of it.
• To illustrate…
• This is evidenced by…
• Consider the example of…

• People are consuming more junk food on a daily basis. Therefore, obesity is becoming more of a problem.
• The scores were inconclusive. As a result, we’ll have to run the tests again.
• College tuition is becoming more expensive. For this reason, more students are having to take out loans.
• Consequently…
• This means that…
• The evidence suggests…
• Due to this…

• Obviously, it’s extremely important to stay hydrated throughout the day.
• The fact is that more and more people are becoming addicted to their phones.
• Clearly, there needs to be more work done to improve our neighborhood.
• Undoubtedly…
• Most importantly…

• They weren’t satisfied with her performance. In other words, she’s getting fired.
• To put it simply, we don’t have enough money to continue this project.
• They’re voting no. That is to say, they’re using their vetoing power.
• To rephrase…
• By way of explanation…
• Specifically…

• While debatable, many people seem to agree that water with lemon is better than regular water.
• It’s possible that new evidence will come to light.
• However, a person’s opinion can change depending on their unique situation.
• Although not proven…

• The author states that people with more hobbies tend to feel more fulfilled.
• According to research, people who are married tend to live longer than those who aren’t married.
• As Theodore Roosevelt once said, “The joy of living is his who has the heart to demand it.”
• As seen by…
• As explained by…
• Based on the findings of…
• With regards to…

• Historically, there’s always been a rivalry between the two men.
• In the past, people would have to travel about 2 hours on foot to get clean water.
• Traditionally, the youngest of the family would get married first.
• Previously…
• Customarily…

How to Choose a Sentence Starter

• For example, if your goal is to write a sequence of events in a way that’s easily understandable by your readers, you might choose sentence starters like, “First…” “Next…” and “To start…”
• Or, if you’re trying to emphasize a point to your readers, choose an adverb like, “Of course…” “Obviously…” or “Certainly…”

• For example, if you want to talk about the negative effects of a certain medication, but were previously talking about the positive effects in the last sentence, use a sentence starter like, “However…” “On the other hand…” or “Conversely…” to show your readers you’re about to contrast the two.
• Or, if you think the idea you presented in the previous sentence could use some clarification, choose a sentence starter like, “In other words…” “For example…” or “To clarify…”

• For example, your paper might start with your introduction and thesis (“In this essay…”), then move on to a paragraph comparing and contrasting two arguments (“Similarly…” “However…”). After that, you might have a paragraph that provides more specific examples (“For instance…”), and then end with your concluding paragraph (“To summarize…”).

• You can’t always assume that your readers know what you know or are picturing the scene exactly as you are. Good, descriptive sentence starters will keep your readers hooked and help them follow along with your story and logic.
• For example, instead of just writing, “The boy ran home,” write something like, “ Trying to hold back his tears, the boy ran home” to provide your readers with important information about how the boy is feeling.

• Consider this example: “Dogs make great pets. Similarly, cats are also great to have as pets. Along those same lines, mice are also very easy to care for.” In this short paragraph, the overuse of transition words actually makes the writing choppier and a bit less understandable.
• Instead, write something like, “Dogs make great pets. Similarly, cats and mice are also great to have as pets and are easy to care for.”
• Be sure to also use a variety of transition words and sentence starters instead of choosing just one and using it 3 or 4 times within the same paragraph. Using different sentence starters will keep your writing from sounding repetitive.

Types of Sentence Starters

• In addition , I will also be staying for an extra 10 minutes to answer questions.
• Therefore , it’s extremely important to wash your hands.
• Of course , you might be more comfortable sitting instead of standing.
• Unfortunately , we don’t have enough books for each person.
• Similarly , we’ll also look at other works from the same author.
• Typically , you’ll want to wait at least 20 minutes after eating before you go swimming.

• Running as fast as he possibly could, Jack rushed to find his friends.
• Smiling softly, she hugged her mother.
• Thinking about his past, Rob wondered why he chose the career he did.

• Loved by many, the King made sure to listen to each of his subjects’ problems.
• Injured after the fire, the man was unable to return to his job.
• Viewed by more than 1 million people, the group’s music video became a hit.

• Bored , Jenny called her friends and asked them to hang out.
• Confused , Dave went to ask his teacher what he was supposed to do.
• Amused , the boy laughed at his friend’s terrible joke.

• As fierce as a lion , he charged into battle.
• Like a flower , the girl grew up to be a beautiful woman.
• Slow as a sloth , the man took forever to finish his work.
• Sleeping like a log , my brother didn’t wake up even when they started setting off fireworks.

• Before we left, we went to go visit our favorite cafe one last time.
• Around lunchtime, Frank’s mother called him with good news.
• At 7 p.m., Christian left to go pick up his brother.
• In the small conference room, Amy waited anxiously for her coworkers to arrive.
• Near the lake, the friends set up their campsite and started building a fire.
• Outside of the arena, a fight broke out.
• With the help of my best friend, I was able to get really great concert tickets.
• Without my car, I can’t go to my office.

• To lose weight, exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet.
• To get the highest score, you need to practice every single day.
• To find the restaurant, open the message I sent you and put the address into your GPS.

• BOOM ! The car erupted in a fiery explosion.
• Splash . The boy watched as the mermaid dove back into the dark ocean.
• Squawk ! Johny’s parrot let out a loud cry.

Expert Q&A

Other wikihows.

Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about writing, check out our in-depth interview with Richard Perkins .

• ↑ https://wts.indiana.edu/writing-guides/paragraphs-and-topic-sentences.html
• ↑ https://online.op.ac.nz/assets/Uploads/f373ebe246/Sentence-starters.pdf
• ↑ https://www.touro.edu/departments/writing-center/tutorials/transitional-words/
• ↑ https://www.wlwv.k12.or.us/cms/lib/OR01001812/Centricity/Domain/1843/TransitionWordsinNarrativeWriting.pdf
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/transitions/
• ↑ https://sites.muscogee.k12.ga.us/lva/wp-content/uploads/sites/126/2022/07/Sentence-Starters-and-Transitions.pdf
• ↑ https://yoast.com/transition-words-why-and-how-to-use-them/
• ↑ https://achievethecore.org/content/upload/ELL%20Supports%20for%20Writing%20and%20Discussion.pdf
• ↑ https://www.aate.org.au/documents/item/892
• ↑ https://www.is34.org/pdfs/Examples_of_Argumentative_Language.PDF
• ↑ https://www.monash.edu/student-academic-success/improve-your-academic-english/strategies-for-writing-academic-english/express-uncertainty-in-writing
• ↑ https://www.solonschools.org/site/handlers/filedownload.ashx?moduleinstanceid=955&dataid=4287&FileName=Sato%20Copy%20of%20Transitions%20that%20Lead%20Into%20Evidence%20and%20Explanation.pdf
• ↑ https://www.sjsu.edu/writingcenter/docs/handouts/Sentence%20Types%20and%20Functions.pdf
• ↑ https://www.strose.edu/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Transition-Sentences-Handout-2012B.pdf
• ↑ https://writing.wisc.edu/handbook/style/transitions/
• ↑ https://www.sjsu.edu/writingcenter/docs/handouts/Conjunctive%20Adverbs.pdf
• ↑ https://www.esu.edu/writing-studio/guides/participles.cfm
• ↑ https://www.sjsu.edu/writingcenter/docs/handouts/Sentence%20Openers.pdf
• ↑ https://www.hillcrest.bham.sch.uk/_site/data/files/documents/knowledge%20organisers/english/year%207/DED96EECFAB64BCCF1317D0707474164.pdf
• ↑ https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED598862.pdf
• ↑ https://liberalarts.oregonstate.edu/wlf/what-onomatopoeia

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7 Effective Ways to Start a Sentence

Table of Contents

There are different ways to start a sentence and convey your message effectively to the readers. Being aware of the different rhetorical structures used in good writing is of huge importance to becoming a good writer.

This article will explore the importance of sentence openers along with seven ways to improve your coherence and quality of writing.

Why Are Sentence Starters Important?

Beginning a sentence right will improve the structure, flow, quality, and clarity of your writing. Simply, a sentence starter is just a word or a short phrase that introduces the paragraph’s main point .

It serves as a way to get the audience’s attention, set the pace for the rest of the paragraph, and provide a transition.

By choosing a sentence starter, the speaker can effectively begin the point of their message. They can make relevant connections and add to the main idea they want to convey.

You must learn to start a sentence effectively before you can write a well-crafted sentence. Here are some ways to start a sentence right and make your writing more impactful and engaging.

1. Take Into Account Your Main Theme

Think about your main idea before you begin to compose a sentence. Do you want to draw attention to the topic, an activity the subject is performing, or how they feel?

You can choose how to format your statement by using the answers to all of these questions. Try to use what your reader wants to know about first, and use that to inform your line.

2. Keep the Flow With the Previous Sentence

A sentence that is completely out of context will never make sense. When creating a new sentence, always keep the prior one in mind.

You should make sure that your writing sentence flows naturally and conveys information easily from one sentence to the next.

3. Make use of Transition Words

You may begin your sentence with linking words or phrases. These phrases have the power to draw your reader’s attention. So when you start talking about something, they are already engaged with your writing.

Based on your previous statement, you might need to begin the new sentence with transitional words to change to a different notion. “Therefore,” “However,” “Additionally,” and “Furthermore” are some common transitional words.

4. Use Prepositional phrases

Prepositional phrases are often required to show how nouns, pronouns, and verbs relate to one another. These words can be used to start statements with ease. For instance, “Despite the differences, they agreed to work together.”

5. Use a Gerund or “ing” Word

Gerunds, or words that end in “ing,” can be an effective sentence opener. These sentence starters usually draw attention to an action that the subject is carrying out.

For example, you can write, “Walking down the street, he saw two kids fighting for a piece of bun.”

6. Try a Subject or Clausal Opener

If you want a simple starting of your statement, try opening it with the subject of the sentence. For instance, “The lady went to the mall and never returned.”

However, to construct a little complex sentence, try opening it with a clausal opener that usually begins with a dependent clause and conjunction. For example, “Although I love the new idea, I will still stick to the original plan. “

7. Start with an Adverbial Phrase

Adverbs are words ending in ‘ly.’ They can be used to open a sentence by indicating the manner in which an action is performed. For example, “Silently, she sneaked out of the house through the back door.”

Sentence starters are a great way to introduce your ideas and thoughts to your audience . This includes telling what your opinion is on a controversial subject while also demonstrating your point.

This article outlines seven practical ways to start a sentence and vary your sentence structure for more impactful writing.

Abir Ghenaiet

Abir is a data analyst and researcher. Among her interests are artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing. As a humanitarian and educator, she actively supports women in tech and promotes diversity.

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Primary English Tips | Creative Writing: Sentence Starters

• Posted By Lil' but Mighty

Hi all! I think it will be timely to discuss a way for children to improve on the language component of their composition writing , in particular, having variety in sentence structure. Having descriptive phrases and rich vocabulary is important but constructing interesting sentences is vital in achieving a good score for language too.

One way to construct sentences with variety is to use different ways to start a sentence. Here are 5 sentence starters to add variety to your writing.

Ways to start a sentence

1) start a sentence with a noun(subject/ object).

The little boy/ He/ David   kissed his mother goodbye quickly before going to school. Mother   was kissed by David before he left for school.

A quick recapitulation on what a Subject and an Object of a sentence are.  Subject is the doer of an action  while the  Object is the receiver of an action . This is the most common way children start their sentence as they will be inclined to list down details of what was done by the characters or done to the characters. What they end up with are numerous sentences beginning with nouns and pronouns. Yawn.

Take a look at your child’s composition. If he/she has sentences which start this way all the time, it is time to read on.

2) Start a sentence with Adverbs

Quickly , David kissed his mother goodbye before going to school. Tearfully , Jan apologised for her mistake.

Adverbs are words that describe verbs (action words). Examples are adverbs are anxiously, immediately, playfully. As children may find adverbs familiar and easier to grasp, this is a good way to begin injecting variety to your child’s sentences.

3) Start a sentence with an adverbial phrase (time, manner, place)

Time:  Before going to school , David kissed his mother goodbye quickly. Manner:  All of a sudden ,  a child dashed across the road. Place:  In the pouring rain , the boy shivered as he walked home without an umbrella.

Like an adverb, an adverbial phase describes the action. Have your child think about the  when, how and where of the sentence  and they will find it easier to introduce this sentence structure to their compositions.

4) Start a sentence with a continuous verb phrase (continuous action)

Kissing   his mother goodbye quickly , David left for school. Shivering (from the cold) , the boy walked home without an umbrella in the pouring rain. Realising her mistake,  Jan apologised tearfully.

A continuous verb are verbs in the -ing form  e.g.  Running, singing, clapping . Instead of listing down what the characters are doing plainly, try beginning with the action being done by the character first.

5) Start a sentence with a past participle verb phrase

Shocked by what he saw , James screamed. Soaked by the rain , the boy shivered as he walked home without an umbrella. Filled with anger,  Mary decided to confront her friend.

A tip for using this way to start a sentence is to  think about emotions  such as  shocked, angered and worried.  This not only varies your sentences but also helps to add in descriptions of emotions to your characters.

How can I apply this with my child? 

A paragraph like the following is very common for a child who does not have variety in the way he/she begins a sentence:

This paragraph has some interesting vocabulary used but it can definitely be improved with some variety in the way the sentences begin. All the sentences begin with a noun or pronoun. Compare it with the paragraph below that is rewritten using different sentence starters.

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• Writing Activities

105 Creative Writing Exercises To Get You Writing Again

You know that feeling when you just don’t feel like writing? Sometimes you can’t even get a word down on paper. It’s the most frustrating thing ever to a writer, especially when you’re working towards a deadline. The good news is that we have a list of 105 creative writing exercises to help you get motivated and start writing again!

What are creative writing exercises?

Creative writing exercises are short writing activities (normally around 10 minutes) designed to get you writing. The goal of these exercises is to give you the motivation to put words onto a blank paper. These words don’t need to be logical or meaningful, neither do they need to be grammatically correct or spelt correctly. The whole idea is to just get you writing something, anything. The end result of these quick creative writing exercises is normally a series of notes, bullet points or ramblings that you can, later on, use as inspiration for a bigger piece of writing such as a story or a poem. 

Good creative writing exercises are short, quick and easy to complete. You shouldn’t need to think too much about your style of writing or how imaginative your notes are. Just write anything that comes to mind, and you’ll be on the road to improving your creative writing skills and beating writer’s block . 

Use the generator below to get a random creative writing exercise idea:

List of 105+ Creative Writing Exercises

Here are over 105 creative writing exercises to give your brain a workout and help those creative juices flow again:

• Set a timer for 60 seconds. Now write down as many words or phrases that come to mind at that moment.
• Pick any colour you like. Now start your sentence with this colour. For example, Orange, the colour of my favourite top. 
• Open a book or dictionary on a random page. Pick a random word. You can close your eyes and slowly move your finger across the page. Now, write a paragraph with this random word in it. You can even use an online dictionary to get random words:

• Create your own alphabet picture book or list. It can be A to Z of animals, food, monsters or anything else you like!
• Using only the sense of smell, describe where you are right now.
• Take a snack break. While eating your snack write down the exact taste of that food. The goal of this creative writing exercise is to make your readers savour this food as well.
• Pick a random object in your room and write a short paragraph from its point of view. For example, how does your pencil feel? What if your lamp had feelings?
• Describe your dream house. Where would you live one day? Is it huge or tiny? 
• Pick two different TV shows, movies or books that you like. Now swap the main character. What if Supergirl was in Twilight? What if SpongeBob SquarePants was in The Flash? Write a short scene using this character swap as inspiration.
• What’s your favourite video game? Write at least 10 tips for playing this game.
• Pick your favourite hobby or sport. Now pretend an alien has just landed on Earth and you need to teach it this hobby or sport. Write at least ten tips on how you would teach this alien.
• Use a random image generator and write a paragraph about the first picture you see.

• Write a letter to your favourite celebrity or character. What inspires you most about them? Can you think of a memorable moment where this person’s life affected yours? We have this helpful guide on writing a letter to your best friend for extra inspiration.
• Write down at least 10 benefits of writing. This can help motivate you and beat writer’s block.
• Complete this sentence in 10 different ways: Patrick waited for the school bus and…
• Pick up a random book from your bookshelf and go to page 9. Find the ninth sentence on that page. Use this sentence as a story starter.
• Create a character profile based on all the traits that you hate. It might help to list down all the traits first and then work on describing the character.
• What is the scariest or most dangerous situation you have ever been in? Why was this situation scary? How did you cope at that moment?
• Pretend that you’re a chat show host and you’re interviewing your favourite celebrity. Write down the script for this conversation.
• Using extreme detail, write down what you have been doing for the past one hour today. Think about your thoughts, feelings and actions during this time.
• Make a list of potential character names for your next story. You can use a fantasy name generator to help you.
• Describe a futuristic setting. What do you think the world would look like in 100 years time?
• Think about a recent argument you had with someone. Would you change anything about it? How would you resolve an argument in the future?
• Describe a fantasy world. What kind of creatures live in this world? What is the climate like? What everyday challenges would a typical citizen of this world face? You can use this fantasy world name generator for inspiration.
• At the flip of a switch, you turn into a dragon. What kind of dragon would you be? Describe your appearance, special abilities, likes and dislikes. You can use a dragon name generator to give yourself a cool dragon name.
• Pick your favourite book or a famous story. Now change the point of view. For example, you could rewrite the fairytale , Cinderella. This time around, Prince Charming could be the main character. What do you think Prince Charming was doing, while Cinderella was cleaning the floors and getting ready for the ball?
• Pick a random writing prompt and use it to write a short story. Check out this collection of over 300 writing prompts for kids to inspire you. 
• Write a shopping list for a famous character in history. Imagine if you were Albert Einstein’s assistant, what kind of things would he shop for on a weekly basis?
• Create a fake advertisement poster for a random object that is near you right now. Your goal is to convince the reader to buy this object from you.
• What is the worst (or most annoying) sound that you can imagine? Describe this sound in great detail, so your reader can understand the pain you feel when hearing this sound.
• What is your favourite song at the moment? Pick one line from this song and describe a moment in your life that relates to this line.
•  You’re hosting an imaginary dinner party at your house. Create a list of people you would invite, and some party invites. Think about the theme of the dinner party, the food you will serve and entertainment for the evening. 
• You are waiting to see your dentist in the waiting room. Write down every thought you are having at this moment in time. 
• Make a list of your greatest fears. Try to think of at least three fears. Now write a short story about a character who is forced to confront one of these fears. 
• Create a ‘Wanted’ poster for a famous villain of your choice. Think about the crimes they have committed, and the reward you will give for having them caught. 
• Imagine you are a journalist for the ‘Imagine Forest Times’ newspaper. Your task is to get an exclusive interview with the most famous villain of all time. Pick a villain of your choice and interview them for your newspaper article. What questions would you ask them, and what would their responses be?
•  In a school playground, you see the school bully hurting a new kid. Write three short stories, one from each perspective in this scenario (The bully, the witness and the kid getting bullied).
• You just won $10 million dollars. What would you spend this money on?
• Pick a random animal, and research at least five interesting facts about this animal. Write a short story centred around one of these interesting facts. 
• Pick a global issue that you are passionate about. This could be climate change, black lives matters, women’s rights etc. Now create a campaign poster for this global issue. 
• Write an acrostic poem about an object near you right now (or even your own name). You could use a poetry idea generator to inspire you.
• Imagine you are the head chef of a 5-star restaurant. Recently the business has slowed down. Your task is to come up with a brand-new menu to excite customers. Watch this video prompt on YouTube to inspire you.
• What is your favourite food of all time? Imagine if this piece of food was alive, what would it say to you?
• If life was one big musical, what would you be singing about right now? Write the lyrics of your song. 
• Create and describe the most ultimate villain of all time. What would their traits be? What would their past look like? Will they have any positive traits?
• Complete this sentence in at least 10 different ways: Every time I look out of the window, I…
• You have just made it into the local newspaper, but what for? Write down at least five potential newspaper headlines . Here’s an example, Local Boy Survives a Deadly Illness.
• If you were a witch or a wizard, what would your specialist area be and why? You might want to use a Harry Potter name generator or a witch name generator for inspiration.
• What is your favourite thing to do on a Saturday night? Write a short story centred around this activity. 
• Your main character has just received the following items: A highlighter, a red cap, a teddy bear and a fork. What would your character do with these items? Can you write a story using these items? 
• Create a timeline of your own life, from birth to this current moment. Think about the key events in your life, such as birthdays, graduations, weddings and so on. After you have done this, you can pick one key event from your life to write a story about. 
• Think of a famous book or movie you like. Rewrite a scene from this book or movie, where the main character is an outsider. They watch the key events play out, but have no role in the story. What would their actions be? How would they react?
• Three very different characters have just won the lottery. Write a script for each character, as they reveal the big news to their best friend.  
• Write a day in the life story of three different characters. How does each character start their day? What do they do throughout the day? And how does their day end?
•  Write about the worst experience in your life so far. Think about a time when you were most upset or angry and describe it. 
• Imagine you’ve found a time machine in your house. What year would you travel to and why?
• Describe your own superhero. Think about their appearance, special abilities and their superhero name. Will they have a secret identity? Who is their number one enemy?
• What is your favourite country in the world? Research five fun facts about this country and use one to write a short story. 
• Set yourself at least three writing goals. This could be a good way to motivate yourself to write every day. For example, one goal might be to write at least 150 words a day. 
• Create a character description based on the one fact, three fiction rule. Think about one fact or truth about yourself. And then add in three fictional or fantasy elements. For example, your character could be the same age as you in real life, this is your one fact. And the three fictional elements could be they have the ability to fly, talk in over 100 different languages and have green skin. 
• Describe the perfect person. What traits would they have? Think about their appearance, their interests and their dislikes. 
• Keep a daily journal or diary. This is a great way to keep writing every day. There are lots of things you can write about in your journal, such as you can write about the ‘highs’ and ‘lows’ of your day. Think about anything that inspired you or anything that upset you, or just write anything that comes to mind at the moment. 
• Write a book review or a movie review. If you’re lost for inspiration, just watch a random movie or read any book that you can find. Then write a critical review on it. Think about the best parts of the book/movie and the worst parts. How would you improve the book or movie?
• Write down a conversation between yourself. You can imagine talking to your younger self or future self (i.e. in 10 years’ time). What would you tell them? Are there any lessons you learned or warnings you need to give? Maybe you could talk about what your life is like now and compare it to their life?
• Try writing some quick flash fiction stories . Flash fiction is normally around 500 words long, so try to stay within this limit.
• Write a six-word story about something that happened to you today or yesterday. A six-word story is basically an entire story told in just six words. Take for example: “Another football game ruined by me.” or “A dog’s painting sold for millions.” – Six-word stories are similar to writing newspaper headlines. The goal is to summarise your story in just six words. 
• The most common monsters or creatures used in stories include vampires, werewolves , dragons, the bigfoot, sirens and the loch-ness monster. In a battle of intelligence, who do you think will win and why?
• Think about an important event in your life that has happened so far, such as a birthday or the birth of a new sibling. Now using the 5 W’s and 1 H technique describe this event in great detail. The 5 W’s include: What, Who, Where, Why, When and the 1 H is: How. Ask yourself questions about the event, such as what exactly happened on that day? Who was there? Why was this event important? When and where did it happen? And finally, how did it make you feel?
• Pretend to be someone else. Think about someone important in your life. Now put yourself into their shoes, and write a day in the life story about being them. What do you think they do on a daily basis? What situations would they encounter? How would they feel?
• Complete this sentence in at least 10 different ways: I remember…
• Write about your dream holiday. Where would you go? Who would you go with? And what kind of activities would you do?
• Which one item in your house do you use the most? Is it the television, computer, mobile phone, the sofa or the microwave? Now write a story of how this item was invented. You might want to do some research online and use these ideas to build up your story. 
• In exactly 100 words, describe your bedroom. Try not to go over or under this word limit.
• Make a top ten list of your favourite animals. Based on this list create your own animal fact file, where you provide fun facts about each animal in your list.
• What is your favourite scene from a book or a movie? Write down this scene. Now rewrite the scene in a different genre, such as horror, comedy, drama etc.
•  Change the main character of a story you recently read into a villain. For example, you could take a popular fairytale such as Jack and the Beanstalk, but this time re-write the story to make Jack the villain of the tale.
• Complete the following sentence in at least 10 different ways: Do you ever wonder…
• What does your name mean? Research the meaning of your own name, or a name that interests you. Then use this as inspiration for your next story. For example, the name ‘Marty’ means “Servant Of Mars, God Of War”. This could make a good concept for a sci-fi story.
• Make a list of three different types of heroes (or main characters) for potential future stories.
• If someone gave you $10 dollars, what would you spend it on and why?
• Describe the world’s most boring character in at least 100 words. 
• What is the biggest problem in the world today, and how can you help fix this issue?
• Create your own travel brochure for your hometown. Think about why tourists might want to visit your hometown. What is your town’s history? What kind of activities can you do? You could even research some interesting facts. 
• Make a list of all your favourite moments or memories in your life. Now pick one to write a short story about.
• Describe the scariest and ugliest monster you can imagine. You could even draw a picture of this monster with your description.
• Write seven haikus, one for each colour of the rainbow. That’s red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet. 
• Imagine you are at the supermarket. Write down at least three funny scenarios that could happen to you at the supermarket. Use one for your next short story. 
• Imagine your main character is at home staring at a photograph. Write the saddest scene possible. Your goal is to make your reader cry when reading this scene. 
• What is happiness? In at least 150 words describe the feeling of happiness. You could use examples from your own life of when you felt happy.
• Think of a recent nightmare you had and write down everything you can remember. Use this nightmare as inspiration for your next story.
• Keep a dream journal. Every time you wake up in the middle of the night or early in the morning you can quickly jot down things that you remember from your dreams. These notes can then be used as inspiration for a short story. 
• Your main character is having a really bad day. Describe this bad day and the series of events they experience. What’s the worst thing that could happen to your character?
• You find a box on your doorstep. You open this box and see the most amazing thing ever. Describe this amazing thing to your readers.
• Make a list of at least five possible settings or locations for future stories. Remember to describe each setting in detail.
• Think of something new you recently learned. Write this down. Now write a short story where your main character also learns the same thing.
• Describe the most beautiful thing you’ve ever seen in your whole life. Your goal is to amaze your readers with its beauty. 
• Make a list of things that make you happy or cheer you up. Try to think of at least five ideas. Now imagine living in a world where all these things were banned or against the law. Use this as inspiration for your next story.
• Would you rather be rich and alone or poor and very popular? Write a story based on the lives of these two characters. 
• Imagine your main character is a Librarian. Write down at least three dark secrets they might have. Remember, the best secrets are always unexpected.
• There’s a history behind everything. Describe the history of your house. How and when was your house built? Think about the land it was built on and the people that may have lived here long before you.
• Imagine that you are the king or queen of a beautiful kingdom. Describe your kingdom in great detail. What kind of rules would you have? Would you be a kind ruler or an evil ruler of the kingdom?
• Make a wish list of at least three objects you wish you owned right now. Now use these three items in your next story. At least one of them must be the main prop in the story.
• Using nothing but the sense of taste, describe a nice Sunday afternoon at your house. Remember you can’t use your other senses (i.e see, hear, smell or touch) in this description. 
• What’s the worst pain you felt in your life? Describe this pain in great detail, so your readers can also feel it.
• If you were lost on a deserted island in the middle of nowhere, what three must-have things would you pack and why?
• Particpate in online writing challenges or contests. Here at Imagine Forest, we offer daily writing challenges with a new prompt added every day to inspire you. Check out our challenges section in the menu.

Do you have any more fun creative writing exercises to share? Let us know in the comments below!

Marty the wizard is the master of Imagine Forest. When he's not reading a ton of books or writing some of his own tales, he loves to be surrounded by the magical creatures that live in Imagine Forest. While living in his tree house he has devoted his time to helping children around the world with their writing skills and creativity.

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Guides • Perfecting your Craft

Last updated on Dec 23, 2022

Creative Writing: 8 Fun Ways to Get Started

About the author.

Reedsy's editorial team is a diverse group of industry experts devoted to helping authors write and publish beautiful books.

About Savannah Cordova

Savannah is a senior editor with Reedsy and a published writer whose work has appeared on Slate, Kirkus, and BookTrib. Her short fiction has appeared in the Owl Canyon Press anthology, "No Bars and a Dead Battery". 

Creative writing is a written art form that uses the imagination to tell stories and compose essays, poetry, screenplays, novels, lyrics, and more. It can be defined in opposition to the dry and factual types of writing found in academic, technical, or journalistic texts.

Characterized by its ability to evoke emotion and engage readers, creative writing can tackle themes and ideas that one might struggle to discuss in cold, factual terms.

If you’re interested in the world of creative writing, we have eight fantastic exercises and activities to get you started.

1. Use writing prompts every week

Coming up with ideas for short stories can be challenging, which is why we created a directory of 1700+ creative writing prompts covering a wide range of genres and topics. Writing prompts are flexible in nature, they are meant to inspire you without being too constrictive. Overall, they are a great way to keep your creative muscles limber.

If you’re struggling for motivation, how does a hard deadline and a little prize money sound? Prompts-based writing contests are a fantastic way to dive into creative writing: the combination of due dates, friendly rivalries, prize money, and the potential to have your work published is often just what’s needed to propel you over the finish line. 

We run a weekly writing contest over on Reedsy Prompts , where hundreds of writers from all around the world challenge themselves weekly to write a short story between 1,000 and 3,000 words for a chance to win the $250 prize. Furthermore, the community is very active in providing constructive feedback, support, and accountability to each other 一 something that will make your efforts even more worthwhile.

Take a peek at our directory of writing contests which features some of the most prestigious open writing competitions in the world. 

2. Start journaling your days

Another easy way to get started with creative writing is to keep a journal. We’re not talking about an hour-by-hour account of your day, but journaling as a way to express yourself without filters and find your ‘voice in writing’. If you’re unsure what to journal about, think of any daily experiences that have had an impact on you, such as… 

Special moments . Did you lock yourself out of your house? Or did you catch a beautiful sunset on your way back from groceries? Capture those moments, and how you felt about them.

People . Did you have an unusual exchange with a stranger at the bar? Or did you reconnect with someone you haven’t seen in years? Share your thoughts about it.

World events . Is there something happening in the world right now that is triggering you? That’s understandable. You can reflect on it (and let some steam off) while journaling.

Memories . Did you go down memory lane after a glass of wine? Great, honor those memories by trying to recollect them in detail on paper so that they will always stay vivid in your mind.

Life decisions . Are you having an existential crisis about what to do with your life? Write down your thought process, and the pros and cons of the possible decisions in front of you. You’ll be surprised to discover that, not only is it a great creative writing exercise, but it can also actually help you sort your life out! 

If you struggle to write consistently, sign up for our How to Write a Novel course to finish a novel in just 3 months.  

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3. Create an anonymous social media account

Like anonymous blogging, an incognito Twitter account sidesteps the pressure that comes with attaching your name to your work. Anonymously putting tiny stories out into the ether gives you the freedom to create without worrying about the consequences — which is great, so long as you don’t use it as an opportunity to troll people or spread conspiracy theories. 

You could use the anonymous account in different ways. For example, you could…

• Tweet from unique perspectives (e.g. a dog observing human behavior );
• Create a parody account of real or fictional people (e.g. an English poet from the Middle Ages );
• Challenge yourself to write tiny flash fiction stories that fit into Twitter threads.

Just remember, you’re not doing this to fool anyone into thinking that your account is real: be a good citizen and mark yourself a fiction account in your bio. 

But if you’re not really a social media kinda person, you may enjoy our next tip, which is a bit more on the analog side.

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4. Find an old photo and tell its story

Find a random old photo — maybe on the web, maybe from a photo album in a yard sale — and see what catches your attention. Look closely at it and try to imagine the story behind it. What was happening? Who are the people in it and how are they really feeling? Do they share a relationship, and of what kind? What are their goals and dreams?

In other words, bring the photo to life with your imagination. Don't be afraid to take artistic license with your story, as the goal is to be creative and have fun while writing. 

How do you know it’s creative writing?

5. Create a character from a random name

Just as our universe started from a few simple elements, you can create a character from a few basic information, like their name, culture, and gender. Reedsy’s handy character name generator can help you with that, offering random names based on archetypes, Medieval roots, fantasy traits and more. A few examples? A Celtic heroine named Fíona O'Keefe, a hero’s sidekick named Aderine, or a Korean track star named Park Kang-Dae.

Once you've chosen their name, begin to develop their personality. Set a timer for 5–10 minutes and write anything that comes to mind about them. It could be a page from their FBI dossier, a childhood diary entry, or simply a scene about them boiling an egg.

Just ‘go with the flow’ and don’t stop writing until your time is up. Repeat the process a few times to further hone the personality. If you like what you end up with, you can always go deeper later by creating a character bible . 

If a stream-of-consciousness exercise is not your thing, you can try to imagine your character in a specific situation and write down how’d they respond to it. For example, what if they were betrayed by a friend? Or if they were elected in power? To help you imagine situations to put your character in, we made a free template that you can download below. 

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40 questions to help you develop memorable characters.

6. Construct a character by people-watching

People watching is “the action of spending time idly observing people in a public place.” In a non-creepy way, ideally. Sit on a bench on a public square or on a road-side table at your favorite café, and start observing the people around you. Pay attention to any interesting quirks or behaviors, and write it down. Then put on your detective’s hat and try to figure out what that tells you about them.

For example, the man at the table next to you at the restaurant is reading the newspaper. His jacket and hat are neatly arranged next to him. The pages make a whipping sound as he briskly turns them, and he grimaces every time he reads a new article. Try to imagine what he’s reading, and why he’s reacting the way he is. Then, try to build a character with the information you have. It’s a fun creative exercise that will also, hopefully, help you better empathize with strangers. 

7. “Map” something you feel strongly about into a new context

Placing your feelings into new contexts can be a powerful creative writing exercise. The idea is to start from something you feel strongly about, and frame it into a completely different context. 

For example, suppose your heart is torn apart after you divorce your life-long partner: instead of journaling or crafting an entire novel  about it, you could tell a story about a legendary trapeze duo whose partnership has come to an end. If you’re struggling with politicking and petty power dynamics at the office: what if you “mapped” your feelings onto an ant who resents being part of a colony? Directing your frustration at a queen ant can be a fun and cathartic writing experience (that won’t get you in trouble if your co-workers end up reading your story).   

8. Capture the moment with a haiku

Haikus are poems from the Japanese tradition that aim to capture, in a few words, daily moments of insight (usually inspired by nature). In a nutshell, it’s about becoming mindful of your surroundings, and notice if you can see something in a new or deeper way 一 then use contrasting imagery to express whatever you noticed. 

Here’s an example:

Bright orange bicycle

Speeding through the autumn leaves

A burst of color waves

It may sound a bit complicated, but it shouldn’t be 一 at least not for the purpose of this exercise. Learn the basics of haiku-writing , then challenge yourself to write one per day for a week or month. At the end, you’ll be able to look back at your collection of poems and 一 in the worst case scenario 一 revisit small but significant moments that you would have otherwise forgot about.   

Creative writing can be any writing you put your heart and soul into. It could be made for the purpose of expressing your feelings, exploring an idea, or simply entertaining your readers. As you can see there’s many paths to get involved with it, and hundreds of exercises you can use as a starting point. In the next post , we’ll look more in detail at some creative writing examples from some fellow authors. 

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War latest: Ukraine destroys Russian bridge in Kursk region; Putin's forces capture territory in Donetsk

Moscow's forces have captured parts of Donetsk amid Ukrainian strikes in the region. Meanwhile, Ukraine has destroyed a bridge over a river in the Kursk region, Russian state news reports. Listen to a Daily podcast on how Ukraine broke through Vladimir Putin's "red line" as you scroll.

Friday 16 August 2024 22:52, UK

• Putin's forces capture territory in Donetsk - amid Ukrainian strikes on region
• Ukraine destroys Russian bridge in Kursk region - report
• Kyiv hints at plan behind invasion of Russian towns
• Ukraine's invasion bringing world to 'brink of a third world war' claims Russian MP
• 'We could lose': Russian state TV commentators gloomy over Kursk
• Michael Clarke : Pokrovsk in real trouble as Russian troops advance
• Listen to the Daily above and tap here to follow wherever you get your podcasts

That's all our live coverage on the war in Ukraine for now. 

We'll be back tomorrow with all the latest updates. 

Before we go, here's a reminder of today's key events: 

• An ally of Vladimir Putin - parliamentary deputy Mikail Sheremet - warned that Ukraine's invasion of Kursk had put the world "on the brink of a third world war";
• An anti-Putin group of Russians fighting on behalf of Ukraine urged Russian soldiers in Kursk to surrender and fight with Kyiv's army;
• Russian forces took control of the village of Serhiivka in Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region, according to the Russian defence ministry;
• A bridge over the River Seym in Kursk was destroyed in a Ukrainian attack, Russian state media reported, citing security officials;
• Ukrainian air force commander Mykola Oleschuk later shared a clip showing the moment a bridge in Kursk was hit, saying Ukrainian pilots had struck "enemy strongholds" and supply routes in the region. 

Nine people linked to the late Putin critic Alexei Navalny have been added to Russia's list of "terrorists and extremists", the news agency AFP has reported. 

It said those placed on the list include:

• Mr Navalny's former spokeswoman Kira Yarmysh
• His lawyers Olga Mikhailova and Alexander Fedulov
• The chair of Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation Maria Pevchikh
• Opposition journalist Antonina Kravtsova
• Activist Olga Komleva
• Dmitry Nizovtsev, a host on Navalny's YouTube channel
• The YouTube channel's producer Nina Volokhonskaya
• Alexei Malyarevsky, a software programmer jailed for seven years for donating to Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation

The names were included on the website of the Russian financial monitoring service Rosfinmonitoring. 

The service is responsible to tackling the financing of people and groups that Russia has deemed as "terrorists" or involved in "extremist activity" and is able to freeze the bank accounts of those listed.

On X, Kyra Yarmysh claimed one of her accounts had been blocked within three hours of being added to the list. 

Mr Navalny died in February while serving a prison term in an Arctic penal colony. 

Russia's prison authorities said the 47-year-old died after a walk, but his wife, Yulia Navalnaya, has accused investigators of trying to cover up his murder. 

Riding armoured vehicles and playing with dogs, Ukrainian troops are still firmly on the Russian border. 

Reuters has captured photos of them in Sumy - the area where they launched their surprise invasion of Russia's Kursk region last week. 

Since then, they've taken land and pushed on with their offensive, capturing the town of Sudzha yesterday and advancing up to 3km (1.8 miles) today, according to their commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrskyi. 

Five villages in Russia's Belgorod will be evacuated due to ongoing Ukrainian attacks, the region's governor has said. 

Writing on Telegram, Vyacheslav Gladkov said entry to the areas would not be allowed.

"From August 19, we are closing entry to five settlements in the region, resettling residents and helping to remove property," he said. 

Yesterday, Russia's Emergencies Ministry declared a "federal level" state of emergency in the Belgorod due to ongoing Ukrainian attacks. 

A regional-level state of emergency had been declared earlier in the week, and the change in status suggested a worsening situation in the region. 

A Ukrainian lion with "shellshock" is being driven 1,400 miles to start a new life in the UK.

Yuna has psychological issues and coordination problems after debris landed near her enclosure in January, according to a Kent animal sanctuary.

Yuna and male lion Rori - who's also said to be traumatised following a "massive attack" on Kyiv - are the first of five lions being rescued.

Read the full story here ...

Footage has emerged of the moment a bridge in Kursk was destroyed. 

Ukrainian air force commander Mykola Oleschuk shared the clip on Telegram, saying forces had taken part in "combat operations" in the Russian region.

He said Ukrainian pilots had hit "enemy strongholds", equipment, logistic centres and supply routes with the "high precision strikes". 

"Thank you to the pilots and everyone who ensures the combat work of aviation," he added. 

It comes after Russian state media reported a key bridge over the River Seym in the area had been destroyed by Ukraine. 

The destruction had made civilian evacuations harder, TASS news agency reported, citing Russian security officials. 

A man has admitted to being a member of Russia's Wagner Group but claimed he was only "pretending" to be involved.

Piotr Kucharski pleaded guilty to membership of a proscribed organisation between 15 September and 28 October 2023 at the Old Bailey today. 

As he entered his plea, the 49-year-old said: "Guilty that I was pretending that I was a member of the organisation."

Dan Pawson-Pounds, prosecuting, said: "There is no evidence that Mr Kucharski actually travelled to the location he claimed to have gone to, or engaged in the activities relating to the Wagner Group, so that is why the charge has been framed in the way it has."

Simon Gledhill, defending, said: "In short, he told people, and gave the impression that, he was a member of the group rather than being an actual member."

Kucharski listed his address as Watford, Hertfordshire, but he said after the hearing that he was from Poland.

He was convicted and served a 15-year sentence for armed robbery in Poland, the court was told.

He remains on conditional bail.

Who are the Wagner Group?

The group was proscribed as a terrorist organisation in September 2023, making it a criminal offence to belong to or support the group in the UK.

The group became a focus of the war in Ukraine in 2022, with its recruits helping Russia in the battle of Bakhmut - one of the bloodiest of the conflict. 

Its former leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin, later organised a march on Moscow in an attempt to oust senior Russian military leaders over the treatment of his mercenaries and the handling of war. 

But, his attempted mutiny failed. He was later exiled by Vladimir Putin and died in a plane crash a short time later.

Three police officers have been injured in a drone attack in the Mykolaiv region, Ukraine's national police has said. 

In a post on Telegram, the force said the officers were in the southern Ukrainian area to document the aftermath of previous Russian attacks when a drone hit their car. 

It said they all received "explosive injuries" and were undergoing treatment. 

It also shared images purporting to show the damaged vehicle. 

Russia has summoned Italy's ambassador in Moscow after journalists entered the Kursk region. 

The Russian foreign ministry said the official had been summoned over an "illegal border crossing" by a team of correspondents from Italian state broadcaster RAI. 

It said the team had reported from Ukrainian-held parts of Kursk earlier this week. 

"A strong protest was expressed to the ambassador in connection with the actions of the film crew of the Italian state television and radio company "RAI", which illegally entered the territory of the Russian Federation to cover the criminal terrorist attack of Ukrainian militants in the Kursk region," it said on Telegram. 

"In gross violation of Russian legislation and elementary rules of journalistic ethics, the Italian correspondents used their stay in our country to whitewash the propaganda support for the crimes of the Kyiv regime." 

It said the actions of the journalists fell under Russia's criminal code and authorities were taking steps to "establish the circumstances of the crime". 

On Tuesday 6 August, Ukrainian forces launched their invasion of Russia's Kursk region. 

The offensive came as a shock, with Russian officials scrambling to respond as troops and armour poured across the border. 

The Ukrainian operation has been taking place under tight secrecy, with participating forces reportedly only told about it a day before it began.

Since then, fighting has continued and Ukraine has been able to advance further into the region. 

Yesterday, Volodymyr Zelenskyy said his troops had captured the largest Russian town to date - an area called Sudzha. 

Now, Ukraine's military has released footage purporting to show day one of the Kursk offensive. 

In the clip, a Ukrainian tank fires at the Sudzha border crossing terminal.

At least three Russian soldiers are seen signalling their surrender before a larger group exit the rubble of the terminal.

An even larger group of Russian prisoners are seen walking towards Ukrainian territory.

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How to Start An Essay- Steps with Examples

Once you have a single idea to anchor your essay, build the entire piece around it. Starting an essay can be challenging; it's like revving up the engine and keeping your ideas flowing throughout. But I've got a foolproof plan for you. In this article I will show you how to start an essay and write a powerful, impactful piece for your class.

What is the Process of Writing an Essay?

Just like any task that requires organization, writing an essay follows a structured process. If you want to ensure that your essay is well-organized and not just a free flow of ideas, consider the following process:

Read and Understand the Prompt: Begin by carefully reading the essay prompt to fully grasp what is being asked of you. Break it down into manageable parts to ensure you cover every aspect in your essay.

Plan Your Essay: Take time to brainstorm and organize your ideas. Creating an outline or a web of your ideas and supporting details will make the writing process much smoother. This will help you structure your essay logically and ensure all your points are well thought out.

Use and Cite Sources: Conduct thorough research to gather information and evidence to support your arguments. Use quotes and paraphrases from credible sources, but always avoid plagiarism by properly citing your sources.

Write a Draft: Start by writing a rough draft. As Ernest Hemingway said, “The first draft of anything is always crap.” This stage allows you to get all your ideas down without worrying about perfection. Drafts are essential for organizing your thoughts and refining your arguments.

Develop a Strong Thesis: Your thesis statement is the main argument of your essay and the most important sentence you'll write. Make it clear and compelling, setting the stage for your entire essay.

Respond to the Prompt: Once you've refined your draft, ensure that you are directly addressing every part of the prompt. Your final draft should be a polished version of your ideas, with a clear and logical flow.

Proofread: Review your essay carefully to catch any grammatical errors, typos, or awkward sentences. Proofreading is crucial because even small mistakes can undermine the professionalism and clarity of your essay.

What is the Structure of an Essay?

Although more advanced academic papers have their own unique structures, the basic high school or college essay typically follows a standardized five-paragraph format:

1.Introduction

Writing a well-structured essay is crucial for clearly conveying your ideas and arguments. While advanced academic papers may have complex structures, the basic high school or college essay typically follows a standardized five-paragraph format. This format includes an introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion, each serving a specific purpose to guide the reader through your argument.

The introduction paragraph is where you start by grabbing the reader’s attention with an engaging "hook," such as a relevant quote or a surprising fact. Following this, you introduce your thesis statement, which is the central argument or point of your essay. To set the stage for the rest of the essay, you provide a brief preview of the three main points that will be covered in the body paragraphs.

The first body paragraph begins with a topic sentence that introduces the first subtopic related to your thesis. This paragraph includes supporting details or examples that illustrate your point, followed by an explanation of how these details or examples support your thesis. This structured approach ensures clarity and coherence, making your argument more persuasive.

The second body paragraph follows a similar format. It starts with a topic sentence that introduces the second subtopic. Again, you provide supporting details or examples and explain their relevance to your thesis. This repetition of structure helps reinforce your argument and makes it easier for the reader to follow your reasoning.

The third body paragraph introduces the third subtopic with a topic sentence. Just like the previous paragraphs, it includes supporting details or examples and explains how they support your thesis. This consistent format throughout the body paragraphs ensures that each point is clearly presented and thoroughly examined.

3.Conclusion

The conclusion paragraph begins with a concluding transition, such as "in conclusion," signaling that you are wrapping up your essay. You restate your thesis in a new way to reinforce your main argument. Then, you summarize the key points discussed in the body paragraphs, tying them back to your thesis.

Finally, you end with a "global statement" or call to action, leaving the reader with a final thought or suggestion related to your topic. This structured approach to essay writing helps ensure that your arguments are clear, cohesive, and compelling from start to finish.

How to Start an Essay [3 Steps with examples]

Starting an essay can bring a mix of thoughts: how to begin, how to end, what supporting points to use. This confusion often leads students to produce subpar essays. Writing an essay is a process that requires structure, which is why learning how to start an essay is crucial.

From my experience, the first tip is to analyze the question and begin brainstorming. This is followed by a series of steps I'll discuss to help you craft an essay that communicates your message effectively. Let's explore how to start an essay, including examples, samples, and techniques like opening with a thought-provoking question. Whether you're looking for "how to start an essay with examples" or a "how to start an essay sample," these tips will guide you towards a strong introduction that sets the tone for your entire piece.

1.Writing the Introduction

Your introduction sets the tone for your entire essay. It's your opportunity to grab the reader's attention and provide a roadmap for what's to come. Let's break down the key components following up with how to start an essay examples:

The hook is your opening statement that captivates your audience. It should be intriguing, thought-provoking, and relevant to your topic. A strong hook can take various forms, such as a startling statistic, a provocative question, or a vivid anecdote. The key is to pique your reader's curiosity and make them eager to read more.

a) "Imagine a world where your morning coffee could power your entire house for a day. While this might sound like science fiction, recent advancements in bioenergy are bringing us closer to this reality."

b) "In the time it takes you to read this sentence, over 200 species will have gone extinct. The alarming rate of biodiversity loss is not just a statistic—it's a call to action that we can no longer ignore."

Context / Background

After hooking your reader, provide context that helps them understand the significance of your topic. This background information should bridge the gap between your hook and your thesis statement. Explain why your topic matters, touch on recent developments or historical context, and set the stage for your main argument.

"The concept of artificial intelligence (AI) has evolved from the realm of science fiction to a cornerstone of modern technology. Over the past decade, AI has permeated various aspects of our lives, from voice assistants in our homes to complex algorithms driving social media platforms. As AI continues to advance at an unprecedented pace, it raises profound questions about the future of work, privacy, and even what it means to be human. Understanding the implications of this technological revolution is crucial as we navigate an increasingly AI-driven world."

Thesis Statement

Your thesis statement is the cornerstone of your essay. It clearly articulates your main argument or purpose, providing a preview of what you'll discuss in the body of your essay. A strong thesis should be specific, arguable, and concise. It sets expectations for your readers and guides the structure of your essay.

"This essay will examine the ethical implications of AI development, arguing that while artificial intelligence offers tremendous benefits in fields such as healthcare and environmental protection, it also poses significant risks to privacy, job security, and social equality. By analyzing these challenges and proposing a framework for responsible AI development, I aim to demonstrate that proactive ethical considerations are essential to harnessing AI's potential while mitigating its dangers."

Overview Ending (Optional)

To round off your introduction, you might choose to provide a brief overview of your essay's structure. This can help orient your readers and give them a clear idea of what to expect. However, be careful not to give away too much—you want to maintain some element of anticipation.

"In exploring the ethical landscape of AI, we will first delve into its transformative potential across various sectors. Then, we'll critically examine the challenges and risks associated with widespread AI adoption. Finally, we'll propose a set of ethical guidelines and policy recommendations aimed at fostering responsible AI development. Through this analysis, we'll uncover how balancing innovation with ethical considerations is crucial for creating an AI-enhanced future that benefits all of humanity."

Once we have written our overview ending, our introduction paragraph is complete. Here is an example of an introduction paragraph:

This might initially appear daunting due to its size, but leveraging WPS AI can streamline and condense the content effectively. Here's how you can simplify and refine it:

Step 1: Select your entire introduction paragraph, and then click on the "WPS AI" icon in the hover menu.

Step 2: From the list of WPS AI options, click on "Make shorter" to help reduce the length of your content.

Step 3: WPS AI will display a shorter version of your introduction in a small window; click on "Replace".

Step 4: The introduction paragraph will now be replaced with a shorter version for your essay.

2.Writing the Body

The body of your essay is where you develop your arguments and provide evidence to support your thesis. It's the meat of your essay, where you dive deep into your topic and showcase your knowledge and critical thinking skills.

Present and develop the main arguments that support your thesis statement. Each paragraph should focus on a single main idea or argument that contributes to your overall thesis. This structure helps your reader follow your logic and understand your points clearly.

Let's say your thesis is about the impact of renewable energy on climate change mitigation. One argument could be:

"The widespread adoption of solar power technology has significantly reduced carbon emissions in countries that have invested heavily in this renewable energy source."

Support each argument with solid evidence that reinforces your point. Evidence can include facts, statistics, research findings, expert opinions, or examples from real-life situations. The stronger and more varied your evidence, the more convincing your argument will be.

"According to a 2023 report by the International Energy Agency, countries with high solar power adoption have seen an average reduction in carbon emissions of 15% over the past five years. For instance, Germany, a leader in solar energy, has cut its carbon emissions by 28% since 2010, with solar power contributing to more than half of this reduction."

Ideas (Paragraphs)

Organize your ideas into coherent paragraphs. Each paragraph should start with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea of the paragraph. Follow this with your evidence and analysis, explaining how this information supports your argument and relates to your thesis.

Topic sentence: "Beyond reducing carbon emissions, solar power adoption also stimulates economic growth and job creation in the renewable energy sector."

Evidence and analysis: "A study by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that solar panel installer will be the fastest-growing job in the United States over the next decade, with an expected growth rate of 52%. This surge in employment opportunities not only helps to offset job losses in traditional energy sectors but also contributes to overall economic resilience. For example, in California, the solar industry has created over 86,000 jobs, boosting the state's economy while simultaneously reducing its carbon footprint."

This structure is followed for each body paragraph added. So, if you think you have 3 sub-topics, you will have 3 body paragraphs, stating the sub-topic followed by evidence to back your argument.

Transitions

Use transitions to link your paragraphs and ideas together smoothly. These can be words or phrases that show how one idea leads to another or how different viewpoints contrast. Good transitions help your essay flow logically and coherently.

"While solar power demonstrates significant benefits for both the environment and economy, it's essential to consider other renewable energy sources that complement its strengths and address its limitations."

Here is how a body paragraph would look like:

3.Writing the Conclusion

Your conclusion is your final opportunity to leave a lasting impression on your reader. It should tie together all the threads of your essay and reinforce your main points.

Summary / Synthesis

Summarize the main points you have discussed throughout the essay. This reminder helps solidify your arguments in the reader's mind.

"Throughout this essay, we've explored the multifaceted impact of renewable energy, particularly solar power, on our fight against climate change. We've seen how solar technology significantly reduces carbon emissions, stimulates economic growth through job creation, and complements other renewable energy sources. Moreover, we've examined the challenges of energy storage and distribution that come with increased reliance on solar power."

Importance of Your Topic

Explain why your topic is important or relevant. Connect the discussion back to the broader context or implications of your thesis statement.

"The transition to renewable energy sources like solar power is not just an environmental imperative; it's a pivotal moment in human history. As we face the growing threats of climate change, including rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and biodiversity loss, our energy choices today will shape the world for generations to come. The widespread adoption of solar and other renewable energy sources offers a path to a more sustainable, resilient, and equitable future."

Strong Closing Statement

End your conclusion with a strong closing statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader. This could be a call to action, a prediction, or a thought-provoking question.

"As we stand at this critical juncture, the choice is clear: embrace the power of the sun and other renewable sources, or continue down a path of environmental degradation. By investing in solar technology, supporting policies that encourage renewable energy adoption, and making conscious energy choices in our daily lives, we can harness the immense potential of renewable energy. The future of our planet is bright - if we choose to make it so. Will you be part of this solar revolution?"

The final conclusion, including all the main functions, would look something like this:

Bonus Tips: How to Polish your Essay with WPS AI

The great thing about WPS Office isn't just that it comes equipped with everything a student in any field needs and has all the tools for you to write the perfect essay, but also that WPS AI helps you improve the quality of what you have at hand.

Grammar and Spelling Check:

WPS Office includes advanced grammar and spelling check tools that automatically identify and correct errors. This feature ensures that your writing is free of typos and grammatical mistakes, enhancing the overall readability and professionalism of your essays.

Let's say you have your completed essay open in WPS Office. With the help of WPS AI spell check, proofreading and spell-checking would become much easier. Simply click on "Accept All" to make all the necessary changes.

Style and Clarity Enhancement:

Beyond just fixing errors, WPS AI offers suggestions to improve your writing style and clarity. It helps you refine your sentence structure, choose more precise words, and eliminate unnecessary jargon. This ensures that your arguments are presented clearly and effectively, making your essays more compelling and easier to understand.

Writing Assistance:

WPS AI acts as a writing assistant, providing guidance on how to continue developing your ideas. Whether you’re stuck on how to transition between paragraphs or need help expanding on a particular point, the AI offers suggestions and tips to keep your writing process smooth and efficient. This can be especially helpful in maintaining a logical flow and ensuring that all your points are well-supported and clearly articulated.

FAQs About Starting an Essay

1. what is the purpose of the introduction in an essay.

The purpose of the introduction in an essay is to familiarize the reader with the topic, highlighting its significance and relevance. It captures the reader's interest while providing essential background information. Additionally, the introduction outlines the main points of the essay and presents the thesis statement, which acts as the core argument that forms the foundation of the entire essay. By laying out these components, the introduction clarifies the importance of the topic and prepares the reader for what lies ahead in the essay.

2. What is a topic sentence?

A topic sentence is a statement that conveys the primary idea of a paragraph. It conveys the main point and establishes the paragraph's focus, ensuring that all subsequent sentences are connected to this key idea. Every paragraph in your paper should include a topic sentence to clarify its purpose.

3. Why do I need a thesis statement?

A thesis statement is crucial because it defines the main argument of an essay, guiding the writer's direction and helping the reader understand the central focus. It serves as a roadmap for the content that follows, ensuring that all points are relevant to the main idea.

4. How can I make my essay introduction stand out?

To create a memorable essay introduction, begin with an engaging hook, such as an intriguing fact, a thought-provoking quote, or a vivid illustration. Additionally, ensure that your introduction is concise, focused, and directly related to the main topic of the essay. This approach will draw the reader in and establish a solid foundation for your argument.

Create Compelling Essays With WPS Office

Learning how to start an essay will ultimately help you transform your ideas into a compelling narrative. All you need is a prompt and a topic to craft the best essay possible. Remember to infuse your work with a bit of heart to give it a personalized touch, making your writing truly unique and engaging. WPS Office is an excellent tool to help you achieve a well-crafted essay. It assists in forming proper sentences and generating new ideas, ensuring your essay is both coherent and creative.

With features like grammar and spelling checks, style and clarity enhancement, and writing assistance, WPS Office supports you every step of the way in your writing process. Download WPS Office now and experience its capabilities for yourself. It’s designed to make essay writing easier and more efficient, allowing you to focus on expressing your ideas and arguments effectively.

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• 5. How to Write an Argumentative Essay- Steps with Examples
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15 years of office industry experience, tech lover and copywriter. Follow me for product reviews, comparisons, and recommendations for new apps and software.