make a start on (something)
To undertake the beginning of some project, activity, or task. I'll make a start on the dishes if you'll put the kids to bed. I've been trying to make a start on my new novel, but I just can't get the words to flow right.
make a start on something
to set out to do something; to make a beginning on something. See if you can make a start on the project. I will try to make a start on the cleaning before I leave today.