When "so" is used as a conjunction:
* Incorrect: "So I went to the store." (Here, "so" acts as a conjunction connecting two independent clauses, but it needs a comma after "so".)
* Correct: "So, I went to the store." (With the comma, the sentence is grammatically correct.)
When "so" is used to introduce a reason or consequence:
* Correct: "So, I went to the store." (This sentence clearly conveys a reason for going to the store.)
* Less formal: "So I went to the store." (This sentence is technically correct, but it might sound a bit abrupt or informal.)
When "so" is used as an intensifier:
* Incorrect: "So, I am tired." (In this case, "so" doesn't have a clear purpose and sounds redundant.)
* Correct: "I am so tired." (This is the more common and natural way to use "so" as an intensifier.)
Overall, starting a sentence with "so" is generally acceptable in informal settings. However, it's important to consider the context and the specific function of the word "so" to ensure grammatical correctness and clarity.