How to Start a Sentence: 8 Creative Writing Tips

Introduction

Starting a sentence can be difficult. When staring at a blank page or screen, it can be difficult to figure out where to begin. Fortunately, there are a number of creative writing tips that can help you get started. In this article, we’ll explore eight different methods for starting a sentence and provide examples and tips for each.

Begin with a Strong Verb

One of the simplest ways to start a sentence is with a strong verb. A strong verb is one that conveys action or energy, as opposed to a weak verb (e.g., “was” or “is”). Examples of strong verbs include “leap,” “explode,” and “shriek.” Here are some examples of sentences that begin with strong verbs:

• Leaping over the fence, I felt a sense of freedom.
• Exploding with laughter, she knew her joke had been successful.
• Shrieking with terror, he ran from the monster.

When choosing a strong verb to start your sentence, try to pick one that is both vivid and specific. This will make your sentence more interesting and engaging for your reader. Additionally, you can use a thesaurus to find synonyms for common verbs, which can help you create more interesting sentences.

Start with an Interesting Fact or Statistic

Another great way to start a sentence is with an interesting fact or statistic. This can be a great way to grab the reader’s attention and set the tone for the rest of the sentence. Here are some examples of sentences that start with interesting facts/statistics:

• According to the latest census, nearly half of the population lives below the poverty line.
• In 2020, the average cost of a gallon of gas was $2.50.
• The tallest tree in the world stands at 379.3 feet.

When looking for interesting facts/statistics to use in your sentence, try to find ones that are relevant to your topic. Additionally, make sure that the facts/statistics you choose are accurate and up-to-date. You can find reliable facts/statistics online from reputable sources such as government websites or research studies.

Ask a Thought-Provoking Question

Asking a thought-provoking question can be a great way to start a sentence. This will not only draw the reader in but also make them think about the topic. Here are some examples of sentences that start with thought-provoking questions:

• What would happen if everyone followed the same rules?
• How can we make the world a better place?
• Why do people behave differently in different situations?

When crafting your thought-provoking question, try to make it as open-ended as possible. This will allow the reader to come up with their own answers. Additionally, don’t forget to provide an answer to your question in the rest of the sentence or in the following sentence.

Incorporate a Metaphor or Simile

Using a metaphor or simile can be a great way to start a sentence. This will add color and creativity to your writing. Here are some examples of sentences that start with metaphors/similes:

• The sky was a blanket of stars.
• The wind blew like a roaring lion.
• The sun shone down like a beacon of hope.

When looking for metaphors/similes to use in your sentence, try to think of comparisons that are unique and unexpected. Additionally, you can use a thesaurus to find synonyms for common words, which can help you create more creative metaphors/similes.

Use a Surprising Statement

Using a surprising statement can be a great way to start a sentence. This will draw the reader in and make them curious to learn more. Here are some examples of sentences that start with surprising statements:

• Few people know that the moon is actually shrinking.
• Contrary to popular belief, cats are actually quite social animals.
• Believe it or not, octopuses have three hearts.

When crafting your surprising statement, make sure that it is both true and relevant. Additionally, try to make it as unexpected as possible. The more unexpected it is, the more likely it is to engage the reader.

Employ an Attention-Grabbing Quotation

Using an attention-grabbing quotation is another great way to start a sentence. This will not only draw the reader in but also add credibility to your writing. Here are some examples of sentences that start with attention-grabbing quotations:

• “Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass; it’s about learning to dance in the rain.” –Anonymous
• “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” –Lao Tzu
• “If you can dream it, you can do it.” –Walt Disney

When looking for a quotation to use in your sentence, try to find one that is both relevant and inspiring. Additionally, make sure that the source of the quotation is credible and trustworthy.

Conclusion

Starting a sentence can be difficult, but there are a number of creative writing tips that can help you get started. In this article, we explored eight different methods for starting a sentence, including beginning with a strong verb, starting with an interesting fact or statistic, asking a thought-provoking question, incorporating a metaphor or simile, using a surprising statement, and employing an attention-grabbing quotation.