I started documenting

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I started documenting" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the beginning of the process of recording information or details about a specific subject or event. Example: "After the meeting, I started documenting the key points discussed to ensure everyone was on the same page."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

"I didn't particularly have any motivation or reason why I started documenting the days with her; it just came naturally".

The New Yorker

"From the day I gave away my virginity at 17, I started documenting my sexual experiences," Sprinkle told us recently.

The New York Times

"From the day I gave away my virginity at 17 I started documenting my sexual experiences," Sprinkle told us via e-mail.

The New York Times - Books

I realized if I loved seeing them, then there must be people elsewhere who'd love to see them as well, so I started documenting it," says Hirschi.

Forbes

Then I started documenting the conversations".

Vice

I started documenting my journey on my Facebook page.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

When I first started documenting the estate in early 2009, demolition was already under way.

The Guardian

So, I just started documenting the pipeline.

HuffPost

During my frequent trips to Cape Town to be at Philipa's side and to document her fight against cancer, I also started documenting another friend of mine called Ruth.

Vice

After about 45 minutes, we thought, "OK, what do we do now?" I turned to the right and started documenting the rangers instead.

The Guardian - Arts

I am passionate about using herbs for certain ailments and have started documenting my years of knowledge.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I started documenting" to clearly indicate the beginning of a process of recording or detailing information, especially when the context involves tracking changes, progress, or events.

Common error

Ensure that the tense remains consistent throughout the sentence and subsequent text. Avoid switching to present tense mid-description after stating "I started documenting" in the past tense.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I started documenting" functions as a declaration of action, indicating the initiation of a process of recording information. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in various contexts, from personal journeys to professional observations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Wiki

12.5%

Less common in

Science

12.5%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I started documenting" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to indicate the beginning of a process of recording or detailing information. Ludwig AI confirms this with its positive assessment. The phrase appears frequently in News & Media and Academia sources, indicating a neutral to professional register. When using this phrase, ensure consistency in tense and consider alternatives like "I began recording" for a slightly more formal tone. The phrase is versatile, suitable for various contexts, and serves the purpose of informing the audience that a documentation process has commenced.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I began recording

Uses "began" as a synonym for "started", offering a slightly more formal tone.

I started to record

Simplifies "documenting" to "record", focusing on the act of recording information.

I initiated the documentation process

More formal and emphasizes the structured nature of documentation.

I commenced recording

A highly formal alternative using "commenced" in place of "started".

I set about documenting

Indicates a deliberate and planned start to the documentation.

I launched a documentation effort

Emphasizes the effort involved in creating documentation.

I took up the task of documenting

Highlights the undertaking or responsibility assumed.

I undertook to document

Formal and indicates a commitment to documenting.

I turned to documenting

Suggests a shift in focus or activity towards documentation.

I created a record of

Focuses on the creation of a permanent record through documentation.

FAQs

What's the difference between "I started documenting" and "I began documenting"?

Both phrases are similar, but "began" is slightly more formal than "started". You can use "I began documenting" if you want a more formal tone.

When is it appropriate to use "I started documenting"?

Use "I started documenting" when you want to clearly state that you initiated a process of recording or detailing information. This could be for personal, professional, or academic purposes.

What are some alternatives to "I started documenting"?

You can use alternatives like "I began recording", "I initiated the documentation process", or "I commenced recording" depending on the context and desired formality.

Is "I started documenting" grammatically correct?

Yes, "I started documenting" is grammatically correct. The structure follows the standard subject-verb-gerund pattern in English.