Starting or Introducing a Topic

Learn markers that open a topic: to begin with, first of all, basically, fundamentally, so, now, and more.

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Topic

What does it mean?

Starting or introducing topic markers help a speaker or writer begin clearly. They signal that a new idea, explanation, discussion, lesson, story, or first point is starting.

To begin with, listen carefully.
First of all, open your books.
Basically, this is easy.
So, let us start.
Big list

Useful topic-opening markers.

Clear beginningto begin with, first of all, firstly, first, initially, at the outsetstart the first point
Simple explanationbasically, simply put, in simple terms, essentially, fundamentallygive the main idea
Conversation startso, now, well, okay, right, let us start with, for startersopen a talk or lesson
To begin with

Use this to start the first important point.

To begin with, we need to review the budget.The discussion is starting with the budget.formal and clear
To begin with, wash your hands.The first instruction is wash your hands.first step
To begin with, this story is about courage.The speaker introduces the main topic.topic opener
First markers

First of all, first, and firstly introduce the first point.

First of all, check your answer.This is the first action.natural in speaking
Firstly, we need more chairs.This begins a list of points.formal list style
First, add the flour.This begins steps in order.instructions
Basically

Basically gives the simple main idea.

Basically, plants need light and water.This gives the simple idea.simple summary
Basically, the rule is simple.The speaker simplifies the point.easy explanation
CarefulBasically is common in speech, but do not overuse it in formal writing.use when simplifying
Fundamentally

Fundamentally points to the basic truth.

Fundamentally, honesty builds trust.This gives a deep basic idea.basic principle
Fundamentally, the problem is time.The speaker identifies the root issue.main cause
EssentiallyEssentially means almost the same: the core idea.essentially, we need practice
So / now / well

Conversation markers help a speaker begin.

So, let us begin.Starts a conversation, lesson, or next part.friendly speaking
Now, today we will learn fractions.Opens a lesson or topic.teacher style
Well, I want to tell you a story.Softly begins speaking.conversation opener
Formal openers

Use formal markers for reports and presentations.

At the outsetAt the outset, I would like to thank everyone.very formal beginning
InitiallyInitially, the plan looked easy.at first
In the first placeIn the first place, safety matters most.first reason
More markers

Choose the marker that matches your purpose.

For startersFor starters, clean your desk.informal first step
Let us start withLet us start with question one.guided lesson or meeting
To start withTo start with, we need a plan.similar to to begin with
In simple termsIn simple terms, gravity pulls things down.simple explanation
As an introductionAs an introduction, let us look at the picture.introducing a topic
Before we beginBefore we begin, please write your name.pre-start instruction
Sentence completion 1

Choose the clear beginning marker.

___, we need to review the budget.

Sentence completion 2

Choose the simple-summary marker.

___, this machine turns sunlight into power.

Sentence completion 3

Choose the conversation opener.

___, let us start our science lesson.

MCQ 1

Which sentence introduces the first point?

Choose the best sentence.

MCQ 2

Which sentence gives a basic truth?

Choose the best sentence.

Paragraph completion 1

Fill five blanks.

Choose the topic-opening marker that best begins each idea.

, we need a quiet room.
, write your name at the top.
, a seed needs water to grow.
, today we will learn about maps.
, let us clean the table.
Test 1

Mixed question types of 5

Answer all five. Then tap Finish test to see your result sheet.

1. Sentence completion

___, the problem seemed difficult.

2. MCQ

Which sentence begins a guided lesson?

3. Type the answer

___, I want to tell you a short story.

4. Type the answer

___, the rule says we must be kind.

5. MCQ

Which sentence sounds formal and introductory?

Cumulative result sheet

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