Embracing Natural Speech in Writing
While traditional English teachers may have cautioned against starting sentences with conjunctions like “and” or “but,” modern writing styles and professional organizations like the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP) suggest it is perfectly acceptable. This shift acknowledges that natural speech and conversational tone can make writing more engaging and comfortable for readers.
Characters in novels often speak naturally, using “and” and “but” at the beginning of sentences, creating a more authentic and relatable dialogue. Similarly, in non-fiction writing, using these conjunctions can add impact, dramatic effect, and contrast, making the text more captivating.
Commas and Conjunctive Adverbs
However, when using transitional expressions like conjunctive adverbs (“however,” “therefore,” etc.), a comma should always follow. This helps to maintain clarity and proper sentence structure. In contrast, coordinating conjunctions like “and” and “but” do not require commas after them at the start of a sentence.
It is crucial for writers to understand the difference between conjunctive adverbs and coordinating conjunctions, ensuring correct usage and maintaining the flow of their writing.
Authorial Control and Editorial Support
Ultimately, the author holds the final authority over their work. While editors may suggest changes, the author can choose to override these suggestions. This balance highlights the collaborative nature of the writing and editing process.
