How To Use At First In a Sentence? Easy Examples

When we start writing or speaking, creating clear and engaging sentences is essential. One way to make our sentences more dynamic and structured is by using transitional phrases like “At first.” This phrase is perfect for indicating the initial stage or point in a series of events or ideas. Let’s explore how we can incorporate it effectively into our writing to enhance clarity and coherence.

Using “At first” in your sentences helps to introduce a new thought or idea, providing a smooth transition for the reader or listener. It can be particularly useful when outlining steps in a process, discussing a sequence of events, or highlighting the beginning of a story. By indicating the starting point with this phrase, you can guide your audience through your narrative or argument with ease.

In the following examples, we will see how “At first” can be utilized in various contexts to improve sentence structure and flow. By mastering the use of transitional phrases like this one, you can elevate the quality of your writing and engage your audience more effectively. Let’s dive into some concrete examples to further demonstrate the versatility and impact of incorporating “At first” in your sentences.

Learn To Use At First In A Sentence With These Examples

1. At first, did you find it challenging to navigate the new software at work?
2. Have you considered implementing the new strategy at first to see its impact on the business?
3. At first, I was hesitant to invest in the startup, but now I see its potential for growth.
4. How did you feel at first when you were promoted to a managerial position?
5. Can you share with us the factors you considered at first before making the decision to expand internationally?
6. At first, the project seemed overwhelming, but with a clear plan, we were able to tackle it successfully.
7. Before signing the partnership agreement, did you discuss the terms at first with your legal team?
8. At first, setting up a home office seemed like a temporary solution, but now it has become a permanent setup.
9. What advice would you give to someone starting a new job to make a good impression at first?
10. Have you encountered any obstacles at first that you had to overcome in your entrepreneurial journey?
11. At first, I was opposed to the idea, but after hearing the benefits, I changed my mind.
12. Could you clarify the objectives at first so that we can align our efforts accordingly?
13. At first, the product received mixed reviews, but after improvements, it became a bestseller.
14. Can you outline the key steps to take at first when launching a marketing campaign?
15. At first, the market research results were discouraging, but further analysis revealed potential opportunities.
16. Have you conducted a feasibility study at first to ensure the project is viable?
17. At first, it may seem intimidating to negotiate contracts, but with practice, it becomes easier.
18. How do you prioritize tasks at first when starting a new project?
19. At first, it may be difficult to delegate tasks, but it is essential for effective team management.
20. At first, the concept of virtual meetings might seem awkward, but they have proven to be efficient.
21. Before making a decision, have you considered the risks at first and how to mitigate them?
22. At first, the investment may seem significant, but the returns make it worthwhile.
23. Could you provide examples of challenges you faced at first in your leadership role and how you overcame them?
24. At first, feedback can be hard to accept, but it is crucial for personal and professional growth.
25. How important is it to establish clear communication channels at first when working with remote teams?
26. At first, it may be overwhelming to manage multiple projects, but with proper planning, it becomes manageable.
27. Could you share your experience of adapting to a new work environment at first and how you acclimated to it?
28. At first, the sales figures were disappointing, but after revising our approach, they improved.
29. Have you set realistic goals at first to track the progress and success of your business?
30. At first, clients may be hesitant to try a new product, but effective marketing can change their minds.
31. How do you establish rapport with new colleagues at first to build a strong working relationship?
32. At first, it may be challenging to find a work-life balance, but it is essential for overall well-being.
33. At first, it might be difficult to handle conflicts in the workplace, but addressing them promptly is crucial.
34. Can you offer insights on building a strong brand identity at first to attract customers and stand out in the market?
35. How do you anticipate market trends at first to stay ahead of the competition?
36. At first, it may seem daunting to reach out to potential investors, but it is necessary for business growth.
37. What are the key considerations to keep in mind at first when creating a business plan?
38. At first, collaboration with competitors may seem counterintuitive, but it can lead to innovative partnerships.
39. How do you approach decision-making at first to ensure alignment with your business goals?
40. Can you share your experience of onboarding new employees at first and ensuring a smooth transition into the team?
41. At first, it may be challenging to assess the market demand for a new product, but market research can provide valuable insights.
42. How do you motivate your team at first to maintain enthusiasm and drive towards shared goals?
43. At first, the pricing strategy may need adjustments, but testing different approaches can lead to optimal results.
44. Have you explored sustainable practices at first to integrate them into your business model for long-term success?
45. At first, networking events may seem intimidating, but they are valuable opportunities for professional growth.
46. How do you adapt to changes in industry trends at first to ensure your business stays competitive?
47. At first, investing in employee training may seem costly, but it enhances skills and improves productivity in the long run.
48. Have you considered the impact of technology advancements at first on your business operations and how to leverage them?
49. At first, the concept of performance evaluations may seem daunting, but they are essential for employee development.
50. Could you share your experience of implementing a new software system at first and the benefits it brought to your business?

How To Use At First in a Sentence? Quick Tips

Ah! So you want to master the art of using “At First” in sentences, eh? Well, buckle up, because you’re in for a wild ride through the wonderful world of this seemingly simple phrase.

Tips for Using At First In Sentences Properly

First things first (pun totally intended), let’s talk about how to properly use “At First” in a sentence. This phrase is typically used to indicate the initial stage of a situation or describe how something appeared or felt in the beginning. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

1. Clarify the Timeline: When using “At First,” make sure to establish the timeline clearly. Is the action or feeling described happening at the beginning of an event, story, or relationship? This will help create context for the reader.

2. Use in Contrast: “At First” is often used to contrast with later developments or to show a change in perspective. Be mindful of how this phrase sets the stage for what comes next in your sentence.

3. Consider the Context: Think about the overall tone and flow of your writing. Does “At First” fit naturally within the sentence, or is there a better way to express the initial stage of the situation?

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Now, let’s dive into some common mistakes that people make when using “At First”:

1. Overusing It: Remember, moderation is key! Using “At First” in every other sentence can make your writing sound repetitive and dull. Mix it up with other transitional phrases for a more engaging read.

2. Forgetting to Follow Up: Don’t leave “At First” hanging! Make sure to follow up with what happened next or how the situation evolved to give your reader a complete picture.

3. Misusing the Context: Be careful not to use “At First” when describing a recurring or habitual action. This phrase is best suited for describing beginnings or initial impressions.

Examples of Different Contexts

To help you grasp the concept of using “At First” in sentences, let’s take a look at a few examples in different contexts:

1. At first, Sarah was hesitant to try sushi, but after her first bite, she was hooked.
2. At first, the idea seemed impossible, but with determination and hard work, they made it a reality.
3. He thought the old house was haunted at first, but it turned out to be just the wind rattling the windows.

Exceptions to the Rules

While “At First” is a versatile phrase, there are some exceptions to keep in mind:

1. Casual Conversations: In casual conversations or dialogue, you have more flexibility with how you use “At First.” It can add a conversational tone to the exchange.

2. Creative Writing: In creative writing, don’t be afraid to play around with the placement and usage of “At First” to create different effects or emphasize certain aspects of the story.

Now, it’s time to put your newfound knowledge to the test! Can you identify the correct usage of “At First” in the following sentences?

1. Emily was nervous at first, but she quickly warmed up to the idea.
2. At first, his new job seemed exciting, but as time went on, he grew tired of it.
3. They were lost in the woods, and at first, they thought they would never find their way out.

Quiz:
1. Which sentence uses “At First” correctly?
– A. At first, the cat always wakes me up at 5 am.
– B. The party was boring at first, but it got more exciting later.
– C. I always loved broccoli at first, but now I can’t stand it.

2. Rewrite the following sentence using “At First” correctly:
   • She didn’t like the new video game the first time she played it. Later on, she couldn’t get enough of it.

Feel free to leave your answers in the comments below!

More At First Sentence Examples

1. At first, did you struggle with time management in your new job?
2. Can you explain at first how you plan to increase sales next quarter?
3. At first, it may seem daunting, but with practice, you will excel in client presentations.
4. Could you elaborate on your strategy for market research at first in your business plan?
5. At first, many entrepreneurs face challenges when establishing their startup.
6. Remember to prioritize your tasks at first thing in the morning.
7. Is it crucial to establish clear goals at first when starting a new project?
8. At first, the project may seem overwhelming, but with a clear plan, you can succeed.
9. Have you considered seeking feedback at first to improve your business strategies?
10. At first, it’s natural to feel nervous before a big presentation.
11. Can you share some tips for networking effectively at first when attending a conference?
12. At first, investing in professional development may seem costly, but it pays off in the long run.
13. Did you face any setbacks at first when launching your online store?
14. At first, focus on building strong relationships with your clients before expanding your business.
15. Are there any resources you recommend checking at first when researching a new market?
16. At first, balancing work and personal life can be challenging for entrepreneurs.
17. Do you believe setting realistic expectations at first can lead to long-term success in business?
18. At first, it’s important to define your target audience before creating marketing campaigns.
19. Have you encountered any difficulties at first when navigating through the competitive market?
20. At first, invest in building a solid team to support your business growth.
21. Is it necessary to establish a strong brand identity at first to stand out in the market?
22. At first, focus on improving your products or services before expanding your business reach.
23. Have you ever experienced doubts at first when launching a new product line?
24. At first, take the time to analyze your competitors’ strategies before implementing your own.
25. Are there any specific challenges you face at first when collaborating with remote teams?
26. At first, it’s common to encounter resistance when implementing new technologies in the workplace.
27. Have you explored different marketing channels at first to determine the most effective ones for your business?
28. At first, prioritize building a strong online presence to reach a wider audience.
29. Is it beneficial to seek mentorship at first to gain insights into the business industry?
30. At first, focus on creating a solid business plan before seeking investors for your startup.

In conclusion, using the phrase “at first” can help introduce the initial stages or thoughts of a situation, followed by a shift or development. This transition word is effective in indicating a change or contrast in the narrative, making the writing more engaging and clear for the reader. For instance, a sentence like “At first, he seemed hesitant, but then he confidently took the lead” illustrates this transition seamlessly.

By incorporating “at first” into sentences, writers can effectively convey the progression of events or ideas in a structured manner. This phrase serves as a signal for the reader to anticipate a shift in the story or argument, providing cohesion and coherence to the text. Overall, mastering the use of transition words like “at first” can greatly enhance the flow and understanding of written content.