Sentence Non-starters
Do NOT start sentences with these words:
- and, but, so, or
These words are meant to connect ideas together. They come in the middle of sentences, not at the beginning.
Instead:
- Combine the sentences with a comma.
- Use “reconnecting words.” (However, Therefore, Otherwise, In addition)
- Delete the coordinator (and, but, so, or)
For example:
- I bought a new computer. But it didn’t work. (INCORRECT)
- I bought a new computer, but it didn’t work. (Okay)
- I bought a new computer. However, it didn’t work. (Okay)
- I bought a new computer; however, it didn’t work (Also okay)
- I bought a new computer. It didn’t work. (Okay)
See also:
Punctuation: Commas and Periods