d'abord

Meaning

Opens a series: it is the first point, or the first step.

Position and punctuation

at the start of the sentence · a comma after

Example

D'abord, je souhaiterais connaître les dates ; ensuite, je vous confirmerai ma présence.

First, I would like to know the dates; then I will confirm my attendance.

In the DELF

the B1 letter · the B2 essay · the B2 oral presentation

The trap

D'abord CALLS for a sequel: opening a series without closing it with enfin leaves the plan open, and the examiner sees it.