Simply by adding variety to the ways in which you start your sentences makes your writing more interesting, enjoyable, and fluid. Below are seven effective ways to vary your sentences. Review them, and try to incorporate them into your writing.
1. Adjective (a word that modifies a noun)
Example: Grateful, I sent a thank you note to the women who returned my lost cell phone.
2. Adverb (a word that modifies a verb)
Example: Quickly, I took cover as I saw the storm approaching.
3. Prepositional phrase (a phrase that starts with a preposition)
Example: I made you an appointment to see the doctor this afternoon. In the meantime, take Tylenol to reduce your fever.
Click on the link below for a list of common prepositions.
http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/preposition_list.htm
4. Infinitive phrase
Example: To locate the correct way to get to the convention center, use Google Maps.
Click on the link below for a detailed explanation of what an infinitive is.
http://www.chompchomp.com/terms/infinitive.htm
5. Gerund phrase
Example: Buying and registering a new car can be a complicated procedure.
Click on the link below for a detailed explanation of what a gerund is.
http://www.chompchomp.com/terms/gerund.htm
6. Participle phrase
Example: Sealing the envelope, Malia thought of her grandmother’s birthday and knew she would be happy to receive a card from her.
Click on the link below for a detailed explanation of what a participle phrase is.
http://www.chompchomp.com/terms/participlephrase.htm
7. Adverb clause
Example: Because Sandy wanted to make honor roll, she studied hard every night.
Click on the link below for a detailed explanation of what an adverb clause is.
http://www.chompchomp.com/terms/adverbclause.htm
*Adapted from:
Umstatter, Jack. Got Grammar? Ready-to-Use Lessons and Activities That Make Grammar Fun. Jossey-Bass: San Francisco. 2007.
*In acknowledgement of Robin L. Simmons for her user-friendly explanations of infinitive, gerund, and participle phrases and adverb clauses in the above links.