In this article, we’ll explore 35 different ways to express “as follows,” offering you a range of options that you can use in different contexts. This will help you convey your points more clearly and creatively, ensuring your writing is always fresh and appropriate.
When it comes to writing, sometimes the phrase “as follows” can feel repetitive or overly formal. Whether you’re writing an email, a report, or a casual message, it’s often helpful to mix things up a bit. Using alternatives to “as follows” can make your writing feel more natural, engaging, and varied.
What Does “As Follows” Mean?
“As follows” is a phrase typically used to introduce a list, explanation, or set of instructions. It indicates that the information that comes next will elaborate on or clarify the subject being discussed.
When you use “as follows,” you are typically setting up for an explanation or listing specific points. It’s formal, often used in professional settings, and serves as a clear signal that the upcoming content is a direct answer or elaboration on a topic.
When to Use “As Follows”
“As follows” is best used when you’re about to explain, list, or detail something in a structured manner. It’s often used in formal writing, reports, instructions, or when presenting information.
If you’re outlining steps in a process, presenting a list, or giving an explanation, “as follows” works well. It helps prepare the reader for what’s coming next. However, if the context is more casual or conversational, you might want to consider alternatives to keep the tone light.
Is It Professional/Polite to Say “As Follows”?
While “as follows” is perfectly acceptable in professional writing, it can sound overly formal in everyday conversation.
In professional or technical writing, the phrase is entirely appropriate. However, when writing informally, especially in emails or messages to friends, it may come across as stiff. It’s good to know when to switch to a more casual alternative to keep things sounding natural.
Pros and Cons of Using “As Follows”
Pros:
- Clear and direct
- Easily understood in formal contexts
- Suitable for outlining points or instructions
Cons:
- Can sound stiff and overly formal
- Repetitive if used too often in writing
- Might feel too impersonal in casual or conversational settings
As Follows Synonyms:
- “As outlined below”
- “As demonstrated”
- “As detailed”
- “As per”
- “As indicated”
- “As shown”
- “As explained”
- “As seen”
- “As outlined”
- “As listed”
- “As mentioned”
- “As specified”
- “As noted”
- “As discussed”
- “As identified”
- “As illustrated”
- “As represented”
- “As confirmed”
- “As reported”
- “As stated”
- “As outlined earlier”
- “As noted above”
- “As shown above”
- “As discussed earlier”
- “As earlier”
- “As found”
- “As reflected”
- “As revealed”
- “As described”
- “As per our agreement”
- “As demonstrated previously”
- “As calculated”
- “As evidenced”
- “As concluded”
- “As summarized”
“As outlined below”
Meaning:
A phrase is used to introduce a list or explanation that has already been structured or laid out.
Explanation:
“As outlined below” works well when you’re providing details that have been set up or previously mentioned. It’s a helpful phrase in instructions or when summarizing key points.
Example:
“The steps for the project are as outlined below.”
Best Use:
In instructional or formal writing.
Worst Use:
In casual conversation or when simplicity is needed.
Tone:
Formal, clear, and structured.
“As demonstrated”
Meaning:
Used to introduce examples or scenarios that showcase something previously explained.
Explanation:
This phrase is effective when showing how something works through examples or demonstrations. It helps provide clarity by referring to a visual or practical representation.
Example:
“The process can be completed as demonstrated in the tutorial.”
Best Use:
When showing how something works in practice.
Worst Use:
When you are listing abstract ideas.
Tone:
Instructional, practical.
“As detailed”
Meaning:
Used when you are providing more information or a deep explanation.
Explanation:
This phrase is effective when you’ve already given an overview and are now about to dive into specifics. It emphasizes a thorough approach.
Example:
“The requirements are as in the project brief.”
Best Use:
When explaining in depth.
Worst Use:
When you’re trying to keep things brief.
Tone:
Informative, thorough.
“As per”
Meaning:
A common alternative, often used in business settings, is to indicate that something is by prior information.
Explanation: “As per” works well when referring to instructions, agreements, or orders. It’s formal and conveys that the information aligns with something that has been previously stated or agreed upon.
Example:
“As per our last meeting, we will proceed with the next steps.”
Best Use:
In formal or business communication.
Worst Use:
In casual or informal writing.
Tone:
Formal, professional.
“As indicated”
Meaning:
A phrase is used to refer to something that has been pointed out or signaled earlier.
Explanation:
“As indicated” is a polite, formal way to introduce something previously pointed out in the conversation or text. It can be used when directing the reader to specific details or references.
Example:
“The deadline is as indicated on the calendar.”
Best Use:
In formal writing when referencing previous instructions or information.
Worst Use:
In informal communication.
Tone:
Formal, respectful.
“As shown”
Meaning:
A simple and direct way to refer to something that has been visually presented or demonstrated.
Explanation:
When referring to something that has been visually presented or demonstrated (in a diagram, chart, or figure), “as shown” is an easy and clear phrase to use.
Example:
“As shown in the chart above, sales have increased by 15%.”
Best Use:
When referring to visual representations or examples.
Worst Use:
In textual or non-visual explanations.
Tone:
Clear, direct.
“As explained”
Meaning:
A phrase used to clarify that information has already been discussed or laid out earlier.
Explanation:
“As explained” is ideal when you’ve already given an explanation or set of instructions, and you’re now summarizing or directing attention back to that explanation.
Example:
“As explained in the introduction, the meeting will focus on strategy.”
Best Use:
When you need to refer back to a previously explained point.
Worst Use:
In new or unfamiliar topics.
Tone:
Clear, directive.
“As seen”
Meaning:
Refers to something visible or observable, often used when pointing out an example.
Explanation:
“As seen” is often used when referring to something that’s been demonstrated or is observable. It’s a straightforward way to direct attention to something already clear.
Example:
“As seen in the previous example, the formula works as expected.”
Best Use:
In visual or practical explanations.
Worst Use:
When referring to abstract or theoretical information.
Tone:
Casual, clear.
“As outlined”
Meaning:
A formal phrase used to refer to previously structured or laid out details.
Explanation:
This phrase is typically used to direct attention to a previously organized or outlined set of information, such as in plans, proposals, or instructions.
Example:
“As outlined in the proposal, the next step is to review the budget.”
Best Use:
When providing structured or formal details.
Worst Use:
In informal conversations.
Tone:
Formal, professional.
“As listed”
Meaning:
Refers to items or points that have been numbered or enumerated.
Explanation:
“As listed” is often used when you’ve created a numbered list or a set of items that you want to refer back to.
Example:
“The ingredients are as listed on the recipe card.”
Best Use:
When referring to a numbered or bullet-point list.
Worst Use:
In situations where no list has been created.
Tone:
Direct, clear.
“As mentioned”
Meaning:
A polite way to refer to something that has been briefly brought up or referenced earlier.
Explanation:
“As mentioned” is a simple and polite alternative to “as follows.” It’s often used when referring back to a point that was briefly discussed earlier in the text or conversation.
Example:
“As mentioned in my email, I will be out of the office next week.”
Best Use:
When you want to refer to something previously noted.
Worst Use:
When referring to new or unexplained points.
Tone:
Polite, conversational.
“As specified”
Meaning:
Used to indicate that something is under certain specifications or guidelines.
Explanation:
“As specified” is commonly used in contracts, instructions, or technical writing to highlight that something is done according to a predefined specification.
Example:
“The project should be completed as specified in the guidelines.”
Best Use:
In formal or technical writing.
Worst Use:
In casual or informal settings.
Tone:
Formal, precise.
“As noted”
Meaning:
A way to refer to something that has been acknowledged or recorded earlier.
Explanation:
“As noted” is similar to “as mentioned,” but it suggests that something important has been formally acknowledged or noted.
Example:
“As noted in the meeting minutes, the deadline is set for Friday.”
Best Use:
When you need to refer to something officially recorded.
Worst Use:
In casual or informal conversation.
Tone:
Formal, respectful.
“As discussed”
Meaning:
A phrase is used to refer back to something that has already been talked about or explained.
Explanation:
“As discussed” is a common phrase used in both casual and formal writing. It’s a way of reminding the reader of a point that was covered earlier.
Example:
“As discussed in our last meeting, the report is due by Friday.”
Best Use:
When you want to remind the reader of something previously explained.
Worst Use:
When the discussion hasn’t occurred.
Tone:
Clear, professional.
“As identified”
Meaning:
Refers to something that has been pointed out or identified.
Explanation:
“As identified” is useful when referring to something previously specified or recognized. It’s a bit more formal than “as shown” and often used in academic, technical, or professional contexts.
Example:
“The key challenges are as identified in the report.”
Best Use:
When you’re pointing out something that has been recognized.
Worst Use:
In casual communication or discussions.
Tone:
Formal, professional.
“As illustrated”
Meaning:
A phrase is used to refer to something that has been demonstrated through examples, pictures, or explanations.
Explanation:
“As illustrated” is particularly useful when referring to visual aids or clear examples that support your point. It helps make the connection between the explanation and the illustration clearer.
Example:
“As illustrated in the following diagram, the workflow process is simple and straightforward.”
Best Use:
When referring to charts, diagrams, or examples.
Worst Use:
In non-visual or abstract content.
Tone:
Formal, explanatory.
“As represented”
Meaning:
Refers to something that has been depicted or shown, often visually or symbolically.
Explanation:
“As represented” is commonly used when you want to refer to a depiction or representation of an idea or concept. It often works well in analytical, professional, or academic writing.
Example:
“The data is as represented in the chart below.”
Best Use:
In professional or academic writing with visual data.
Worst Use:
In casual communication or informal writing.
Tone:
Formal, analytical.
“As confirmed”
Meaning:
Indicates that something has been verified or agreed upon.
Explanation:
“As confirmed” works well when you need to refer to something that has been verified, validated, or agreed upon by others. It’s often used in communication regarding agreements or final decisions.
Example:
“As confirmed by the team, the project deadline is set for next Friday.”
Best Use:
In official communications or to reference verified information.
Worst Use:
In speculative or unconfirmed statements.
Tone:
Formal, assertive.
“As reported”
Meaning:
Refers to information that has been shared or communicated earlier, usually by a reliable source.
Explanation:
This phrase is effective when referencing data, facts, or findings that have been officially reported, and often used in business, journalism, or research contexts.
Example:
“As reported earlier, the sales figures for this quarter have exceeded expectations.”
Best Use:
When citing previously shared or published information.
Worst Use:
In informal communication or non-referenced data.
Tone:
Professional, informative.
“As stated”
Meaning:
A straightforward way to refer to something that has been declared or clearly stated.
Explanation:
“As stated” is commonly used to refer back to something that has already been clearly stated, often used in formal writing to remind the reader of a specific point or instruction.
Example:
“As stated in the contract, all payments must be made within 30 days.”
Best Use:
When reinforcing something clearly stated or officially declared.
Worst Use:
In casual conversations or when the statement hasn’t been made.
Tone:
Formal, definitive.
“As outlined earlier”
Meaning:
Used to reference something that was previously structured or laid out in detail.
Explanation:
This phrase works when you need to remind the reader of an earlier explanation or breakdown of information, reinforcing that something has already been covered.
Example:
“As outlined earlier, we will focus on improving customer service this quarter.”
Best Use:
When referring back to points that have already been covered in the text.
Worst Use:
When no prior outline or explanation has been made.
Tone:
Clear, structured.
“As noted above”
Meaning:
Refers to information that has been mentioned earlier in the document or discussion.
Explanation:
“As noted above” is commonly used to refer to something earlier in the text, especially in formal writing, such as reports, legal documents, or instructions.
Example:
As noted above, the meeting will be postponed until further notice.”
Best Use:
In formal or professional documents when referencing earlier points.
Worst Use:
In informal writing or casual conversation.
Tone:
Formal, professional.
“As shown above”
Meaning:
Used to refer to something that has already been presented or displayed earlier in the document or discussion.
Explanation:
Similar to “as noted above,” this phrase points the reader’s attention to something previously shown, whether it’s a chart, image, or written information.
Example:
“As shown above, the results have significantly improved.”
Best Use:
When referring to visuals or text that has already been displayed.
Worst Use:
When nothing has been shown or demonstrated earlier.
Tone:
Formal, directive.
“As discussed earlier”
Meaning:
Refers back to a point that was previously covered in the conversation or text.
Explanation:
“As discussed earlier” is a polite and professional way to remind the reader or listener of a point you’ve already mentioned or elaborated on.
Example:
“As discussed earlier, the budget must be approved by next week.”
Best Use:
In professional writing or discussions where you want to remind someone of a prior point.
Worst Use:
When the point hasn’t been discussed yet.
Tone:
Professional, respectful.
“As earlier”
Meaning:
Refers to a previous, more thorough explanation or set of details.
Explanation:
This phrase emphasizes that the information has already been presented in a manner, making it a strong way to refer to a specific section or explanation that goes into depth.
Example:
“As earlier, the project will involve three major stages.”
Best Use:
When reminding the reader of the information already provided.
Worst Use:
When you haven’t provided enough detail earlier.
Tone:
Thorough, formal.
“As found”
Meaning:
A phrase is used to indicate that something can be found in a specified location or document.
Explanation:
“As found” is often used when directing the reader to a source or location where the relevant information or data can be discovered.
Example:
“As found in the records, the payment was made on April 15th.”
Best Use:
When referencing something available in records, sources, or references.
Worst Use:
When the information is not readily available.
Tone:
Clear, factual.
“As reflected”
Meaning:
Used to refer to something that is mirrored or indicated by something else, such as data or results.
Explanation:
“As reflected” is typically used when showing how something in the data, situation, or results correlates to a specific conclusion or outcome.
Example:
“As reflected in the survey results, the majority of employees are satisfied with the new policy.”
Best Use:
When referring to something that reflects or shows specific results.
Worst Use:
When there’s no clear reflection or correlation.
Tone:
Analytical, factual.
“As revealed”
Meaning:
Refers to information that has been uncovered or disclosed.
Explanation:
“As revealed” is ideal for situations where information has come to light or been disclosed, often used in investigative, research, or discovery contexts.
Example:
“As revealed in the study, there was a significant drop in customer satisfaction.”
Best Use:
When referring to new or uncovered information.
Worst Use:
When there has been no new information revealed.
Tone:
Investigative, uncovering.
“As described”
Meaning:
Refers to a previous description or explanation of something.
Explanation:
“As described” works well when pointing to an account or depiction that has already been presented. It’s commonly used when referring to written content or a verbal description.
Example:
“As described in the instructions, you should not leave the device plugged in overnight.”
Best Use:
When referring to a previous description or explanation.
Worst Use:
In situations where no description has been provided.
Tone:
Clear, explanatory.
“As per our agreement”
Meaning:
Refers to something that aligns with a previously made agreement or contract.
Explanation:
This phrase is often used in professional or legal contexts to reinforce that something is being done according to a prior agreement or understanding.
Example:
“As per our agreement, payment is due by the end of the month.”
Best Use:
In formal business or legal communications.
Worst Use:
In informal settings or casual conversations.
Tone:
Formal, contractual.
“As demonstrated previously”
Meaning:
Used to refer to something that was already shown or proven earlier.
Explanation:
This phrase is a little more formal and can be used to refer to something that has already been demonstrated or illustrated, typically in an instructional or technical context.
Example:
“As demonstrated previously, the new software can reduce processing time by 50%.”
Best Use:
In technical or instructional writing.
Worst Use:
In casual conversations.
Tone:
Instructional, factual.
“As calculated”
Meaning:
Refers to something that has been determined through calculation.
Explanation:
“As calculated” is a precise way to present data or figures that have been derived through a calculation, often used in finance, accounting, or analytical writing.
Example:
“As calculated, the total cost for the project will be approximately $20,000.”
Best Use:
When referring to calculated results or data.
Worst Use:
In situations where calculations aren’t involved.
Tone:
Precise, professional.
“As evidenced”
Meaning:
Refers to something that has been shown or proven by evidence.
Explanation:
“As evidenced” is used to reference proof or clear indicators that support a statement, often used in legal or academic contexts.
Example:
“As evidenced by the test results, the new system is much more efficient.”
Best Use:
When referring to evidence supporting a statement.
Worst Use:
When no clear evidence is available.
Tone:
Formal, authoritative.
“As concluded”
Meaning:
Refers to a final result or decision that has been made after analysis or consideration.
Explanation:
“As concluded” is used to refer to the final decision or determination that has been made, often after a process of analysis, discussion, or review.
Example:
“As concluded in the meeting, the proposal will move forward.”
Best Use:
When referring to a decision or conclusion reached.
Worst Use:
When no conclusion has been made.
Tone:
Definitive, conclusive.
“As summarized”
Meaning:
Refers to a brief overview or condensation of previously discussed information.
Explanation:
“As summarized” is useful when you want to provide a brief recap or condensed version of information that has already been discussed or presented in detail.
Example:
“As summarized earlier, the team will focus on the following objectives.”
Best Use:
When providing a summary of key points.
Worst Use:
When no summary has been provided.
Tone:
Concise, summarizing.
Conclusion
Whether you’re writing formally, professionally, or in casual contexts, these alternatives offer ways to communicate with precision and flexibility. Each phrase brings its tone and style, making your communication feel more dynamic and tailored to the situation.
Finding alternatives to the phrase “as follows” can add variety, clarity, and precision to your writing. With these 35 alternatives in your writing toolbox, you’ll be better equipped to express yourself clearly and effectively.