The indefinite article "a" at the beginning of a sentence [closed]

Is it correct to write: Small change makes a big difference or do I need an indefinite article a at the beginning of the sentence? Why?

Solution 1:

I would use one of the following two sentences:

A small change makes a big difference.
Small changes make a big difference.

In other words, with an "a" I'd frame it in the singular—because you're talking about a single small change; otherwise, in the plural—because you're talking about small changes in general.

Here, I'm thinking of change meaning "the act, process, or result of changing."

The only way I can make sense of "small change" without an "a" being put in the singular is when I think of change meaning "coins especially of low denominations · a pocketful of change."

With that meaning, then it makes sense to say:

Small change makes a big difference (when it comes to tipping your server).

And here, small change is being treated as a collective singular, in the same way that an uncountable noun would be.

I believe this answer (aside from the specific final example) will apply to any other countable noun. For instance, you would treat smart idea in the same manner.

However, it would not apply to uncountable nouns. Water, always in the singular without something additional (like body of), would never take "a" front of it.

As one comment validly pointed out, you can order "a water" (or "a coffee") at a restaurant. But, in that case, I would argue that you are using an uncountable noun as if it were countable. (And, in terms of meaning, assuming that the missing "bottle of," "glass of," or "cup of" is understood.)