Sentence starters are the words or phrases that 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.

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.

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 first sentence is your gateway into the world you’re creating. It doesn’t have to be perfect (spoiler: It won’t be), but writing it down breaks the inertia. It sets the tone and begins the journey, both for you and eventually for your readers. Example: “On the eve of her execution, the princess decided to write a letter to her past self.”