Sentence Beginnings
A sentence must express a complete thought. It should be carefully structured to gain the maximum effect. Each sentence should deal with one main idea.
1. You may use short simple sentences. (Usually effective but may become monotonous). Complex or Compound sentences are longer and add variety to your writing. If you have trouble with sentence structure check the following:
(a) Is there a verb?
(b) Does it deal with one idea?
(c) Is it too long and therefore confusing?
2. Sentences may be improved by using a variety of beginnings.
- Bright sunlight streamed into the room.
- Anxious moments passed before he acted.
- Friendly smiles greeted the visitor as he entered the room
- Fortunately, he had enough money to help relieve his friend's sudden hardship.
- Bravely she dived into the swirling water to rescue the child.
- Suddenly he was alerted by the weird noise.
- Sunrise on the mountain ranges excites one's imagination.
- Sailors, absent after a long voyage, greeted and kissed their loved ones.
- Rugby is a game that tests the strength and stamina of the players.
- Howling with pain, the wounded fugitive fell to the ground.
- Scorning the crowd's abuse, he marched steadily forward.
- Laughing with delight, the child drove his dodgem car into the wall.
- Sing to your daddy.
- Hurry or you'll be late for the concert. Notice the beauties of nature around you.
- Before dawn the scout troop was well prepared. From the top of the skyscraper Peter could see the outer suburbs.
- With renewed hope the soldiers followed their officer's orders.
(a) Beginning with adjectives
(b) Beginning with adverbs
(c) Beginning with nouns
(d) Beginning with participles
Participle openings give much scope for variety. Make up several examples of your own so that you become proficient in using them.
(e) Beginning with verbs
Sentences starting with verbs often carry an imperative tone and are valuable in creating this mood.
(f) Beginning with phrases