Useful paragraph frames
One advantage is that …
When it comes to …
To sum up, …
Choose the frame that matches the paragraph's purpose. Develop the point after the opening.
B2.2 · Digital reference · Working prototype
Make the connection.
Choose the relationship first. Then choose clear language. Linkers help readers follow an idea; they do not create a relationship that is missing.
Can this start a paragraph?
First ask: what is this paragraph doing? A topic sentence can start it without a connector. A grammatical sentence opener is not automatically a good paragraph opener.
Need an earlier point
However, … contrasts.
As a result, … gives a consequence.
For example, … illustrates something already stated.
These may open paragraphs if the connection to earlier text is clear. They can also work within the same paragraph.
A full opening clause is possible
Although the flat is central, the noise would make it unsuitable for me.
Because the last bus leaves early, a later class would be difficult to attend.
Both are complete sentences and can open a relevant paragraph. The opening subordinate clause alone would leave an unfinished written sentence.
Usually inside a sentence
also, too, such as and , which means … normally link or develop parts of a sentence in these patterns.
And and But can start sentences. They are not universally banned; formal style and a clear paragraph purpose still matter.
Two connected paragraphs, without a linker on every sentence
Evening transport is the biggest obstacle for me. My class ends at nine, but the last direct bus leaves half an hour earlier. This timetable makes it difficult to attend without a car.
Cost is another important issue. A taxi home twice a week would make the course much more expensive. A later bus would therefore improve both access and affordability.
The openings name different aspects. This timetable refers back clearly. Repeating bus keeps the topic stable. Therefore connects the final proposal to the reasons just given.