“There are countless ways to express yourself better than simply saying ‘as follows’!”
In communication, finding ways to express the same idea with a different choice of words can make a significant difference in how your message is received. Whether you’re writing a professional report, an academic paper, or just trying to make your everyday conversations more engaging, using varied language helps convey your point clearly and keeps your audience interested.
One common phrase that we can easily replace is “as follows.” While it serves its purpose, there are many alternatives that can make your writing more lively and natural.
Think about how many times you’ve read or written “as follows” in emails, reports, or presentations. Using the same phrases repeatedly can make your message feel dull and less impactful. The good news is that there are many creative ways to express the same idea! In this article, we’ll explore a variety of alternatives to “as follows” and how you can use them in different scenarios to make your communication more dynamic.
Now, let’s dive into 35 powerful alternatives to “as follows” that you can use to make your writing or speech clearer, more engaging, and professional. These phrases will help you break the monotony and bring fresh energy to your conversations or written content.
1. “Outlined below”
Scenario
You’re writing an email to a colleague about next week’s project tasks.
Subject Explanation
Instead of saying, “The tasks are as follows,” try “The tasks are outlined below.” This sounds more professional and structured, making it perfect for business communication.
Additional Tips
Use bullet points or numbers after this phrase to keep the message organized and easy to follow.
2. “Listed here”
Scenario
When sending out a list of instructions for a group project to your team.
Subject Explanation
Rather than saying, “The instructions are as follows,” you could say, “The instructions are listed here.” It feels more direct and reader-friendly.
Additional Tips
Using “listed here” is great for informal settings as well, like text messages or quick emails.
3. “As stated below”
Scenario
You’re giving a breakdown of a financial report to your department.
Subject Explanation
“As stated below” works well when referring to facts or details you are about to present. It adds a formal tone that fits business or academic writing.
Additional Tips
Pair this with data or specific references to ensure clarity and professionalism.
4. “The following details”
Scenario
Explaining the rules of a game in a blog post or an instruction manual.
Subject Explanation
Using “The following details” provides clarity, indicating that important information is coming up next.
Additional Tips
Make sure to format the details in an easy-to-read way, such as through lists or tables.
5. “As outlined here”
Scenario
You’re writing a memo to your team about upcoming changes.
Subject Explanation
“As outlined here” gives a structured lead-in to the key points, signaling that specific instructions are provided.
Additional Tips
This phrase works best when you’re presenting a small set of concise points rather than long-winded explanations.
6. “Here are the details”
Scenario
Sending out the schedule for a meeting to a team of co-workers.
Subject Explanation
“Here are the details” gives a conversational, yet clear introduction to the list of points, making it perfect for emails or casual settings.
Additional Tips
It works well when you want to maintain a light tone while still being professional.
7. “Presented below”
Scenario
You’re writing a research paper and need to introduce the findings.
Subject Explanation
“Presented below” is an excellent choice for academic or research settings, giving a formal tone that suits more serious content.
Additional Tips
This phrase is best paired with visuals like charts, graphs, or bullet points to enhance understanding.
8. “Laid out below”
Scenario
Drafting an email with the weekend itinerary to a group of friends.
Subject Explanation
“Laid out below” has a casual yet informative feel, making it perfect for less formal settings where you’re still sharing structured information.
Additional Tips
Use this phrase in everyday communication, such as personal emails or text conversations, to keep the tone friendly but organized.
9. “As mentioned below”
Scenario
Writing a formal email explaining changes in policy at work.
Subject Explanation
“As mentioned below” is another formal alternative that gives a sense of professionalism and structure, especially when referring to prior communication.
Additional Tips
Using this in correspondence where you need to emphasize specific details can help ensure that readers pay attention.
10. “As follows is”
Scenario
Explaining the step-by-step process for a recipe on your blog.
Subject Explanation
This is a straightforward alternative that retains the original meaning of “as follows,” but sounds a bit fresher.
Additional Tips
It works especially well for instructional or process-driven content, such as how-tos or recipes.
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11. “The subsequent points”
Scenario
Outlining your department’s goals for the next quarter in a presentation.
Subject Explanation
“The subsequent points” gives a formal touch and indicates that a clear sequence of points will follow.
Additional Tips
This phrase works well in a professional setting, particularly when introducing points that are ranked in importance.
12. “Outlined as”
Scenario
Explaining the agenda of a business meeting.
Subject Explanation
“Outlined as” provides a strong and formal lead-in to the important points, making it ideal for official settings like meetings or reports.
Additional Tips
When using this, make sure the content following it is concise and to the point for maximum clarity.
13. “Explained below”
Scenario
Detailing troubleshooting steps for an online user guide.
Subject Explanation
“Explained below” adds clarity and helps prepare the reader for the detailed instructions they need to follow.
Additional Tips
Use visuals like diagrams or screenshots to accompany “explained below” in technical content for greater impact.
14. “Laid out as follows”
Scenario
Describing the process for submitting an assignment to students in an email.
Subject Explanation
This phrase keeps the formality of “as follows” but gives it a slightly more modern twist, making it suitable for both academic and business environments.
Additional Tips
Keep your content structured and easy to digest, especially when using a phrase like this in formal settings.
15. “The subsequent information”
Scenario
Summarizing a project proposal for your supervisor.
Subject Explanation
This formal phrase clearly signals that you are about to present key information, often used in professional or business writing.
Additional Tips
Be sure to format the following information in an easy-to-read way to support your choice of this phrase.
16. “As described here”
Scenario
Offering directions on how to assemble furniture in an online tutorial.
Subject Explanation
“As described here” keeps things clear and neutral, allowing you to introduce necessary steps or instructions.
Additional Tips
Make sure the instructions or details following are as straightforward as possible to complement the simplicity of the phrase.
17. “Detailed below”
Scenario
Creating a report for your boss about current sales trends.
Subject Explanation
This phrase sets a professional tone and is often used in formal reports or emails. It adds clarity to the information that is about to be shared.
Additional Tips
Use this when providing lists or data, as it helps signal to the reader that clear, specific details will follow.
18. “Provided below”
Scenario
Sending an event schedule to attendees.
Subject Explanation
“Provided below” keeps your communication professional and direct. It’s great for ensuring the recipient knows exactly where to look for the details.
Additional Tips
Use headers or bullet points to make the following information easier to navigate.
19. “As indicated below”
Scenario
Explaining data trends in a company report.
Subject Explanation
“As indicated below” is formal, making it ideal for business or academic settings. It suggests that the reader should pay attention to the specific points.
Additional Tips
This phrase pairs well with figures, tables, or data points that need special emphasis.
20. “Here is the breakdown”
Scenario
Breaking down a budget proposal in a meeting.
Subject Explanation
This informal phrase adds a conversational tone while still keeping the focus on the specific points that follow.
Additional Tips
Using this phrase with numbered points or a bulleted list helps provide structure without making the content feel too stiff.
21. “Outlined as follows”
Scenario
You’re drafting a company memo regarding new protocols.
Subject Explanation
“Outlined as follows” is a formal variation that keeps things professional and organized. It signals that important steps or points will be detailed clearly.
Additional Tips
This phrase works best when you need to be concise yet comprehensive, making it suitable for business or academic environments.
22. “Here’s the list”
Scenario
Sending out a grocery list to a friend.
Subject Explanation
A casual alternative, “Here’s the list” is perfect for informal communication where you want to keep things light and simple. It conveys the same idea as “as follows” but in a friendlier tone.
Additional Tips
In more personal settings, using bullet points or simple numbered lists can make the information more digestible.
23. “The following steps”
Scenario
Writing instructions for setting up a new phone.
Subject Explanation
“The following steps” is great for instructional content, where you want to clearly guide the reader through a process. It’s clear, direct, and informative.
Additional Tips
Using visual aids like arrows or diagrams can enhance the clarity of your instructions, especially when using this phrase.
24. “The information below”
Scenario
Explaining product features in an online store.
Subject Explanation
“The information below” offers a formal but straightforward alternative to “as follows.” It’s especially useful when introducing facts or data.
Additional Tips
Ensure the information that follows is well-structured to keep the reader engaged and avoid confusion.
25. “Below are the details”
Scenario
You’re emailing a customer about their order shipment.
Subject Explanation
“Below are the details” sets a professional tone while keeping the conversation light and customer-friendly. It’s a direct and courteous way to share important information.
Additional Tips
This phrase is useful for customer service communication, where clarity and brevity are essential.
26. “As demonstrated below”
Scenario
Writing a research paper and needing to show the reader specific data.
Subject Explanation
“As demonstrated below” is formal and best suited for academic or business writing. It implies that you’ll be showcasing evidence or data to support your points.
Additional Tips
Follow this phrase with charts, graphs, or clear visuals to emphasize the data or examples being presented.
27. “Here is what follows”
Scenario
Breaking down a weekly schedule for your employees.
Subject Explanation
This phrase has a more conversational tone while still keeping the structure intact. “Here is what follows” indicates that clear instructions or points are coming next.
Additional Tips
Use this phrase when you want to maintain an approachable tone without sacrificing clarity.
28. “Below is the breakdown”
Scenario
Explaining a financial report to a client.
Subject Explanation
“Below is the breakdown” offers a professional way to introduce important financial or analytical data. It’s formal but still easy to follow.
Additional Tips
Make sure the content following this phrase is well-organized to ensure the recipient can easily digest the information.
29. “As illustrated here”
Scenario
You’re writing a case study about a successful business strategy.
Subject Explanation
“As illustrated here” gives a formal and academic touch, often used when you need to draw attention to specific examples or case studies.
Additional Tips
This works best when paired with specific examples, visuals, or case studies that demonstrate the points being discussed.
30. “The steps are as follows”
Scenario
Providing technical troubleshooting instructions.
Subject Explanation
This phrase retains the meaning of “as follows” but with added clarity for step-by-step guidance. It’s perfect for instructional or troubleshooting scenarios.
Additional Tips
Follow this phrase with simple, numbered instructions to ensure the reader can easily follow the steps.
31. “Here’s what you need to do”
Scenario
Giving instructions to a friend about setting up an online account.
Subject Explanation
This phrase adds a casual, conversational touch, making it suitable for personal or informal communication. It’s clear and direct, ensuring the recipient understands what comes next.
Additional Tips
It works best in casual settings, and you can use a more relaxed tone to make the instructions feel approachable.
32. “Following are the details”
Scenario
Explaining project tasks to a team.
Subject Explanation
“Following are the details” adds a formal, yet straightforward tone to your communication. It’s ideal for business reports or structured emails.
Additional Tips
After using this phrase, ensure your points are concise and well-organized to keep the communication professional.
33. “The breakdown is as follows”
Scenario
Outlining a project timeline in a team meeting.
Subject Explanation
“The breakdown is as follows” keeps the structure of your communication clear, making it suitable for professional settings where detailed explanations are required.
Additional Tips
Use this phrase when you need to present a list of tasks, data points, or steps in a clear, structured format.
34. “Outlined here are the following”
Scenario
Writing an academic essay or report.
Subject Explanation
This formal alternative introduces upcoming details with clarity and professionalism, making it suitable for formal writing or presentations.
Additional Tips
Keep the details following this phrase well-structured and concise, as it implies a clear and logical breakdown of information.
35. “The subsequent details”
Scenario
You’re explaining the itinerary for a business trip.
Subject Explanation
“The subsequent details” is a more formal and polished alternative, perfect for business emails or professional communication.
Additional Tips
Use this phrase when you need to introduce a list of points or steps in a clear and structured manner, ensuring the reader can easily follow.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Variety in language: Keeps your communication fresh and engaging by avoiding repetition.
- Adaptability: These alternatives can fit both formal and informal settings, giving you flexibility.
- Clarity: Some alternatives provide clearer instructions, especially in instructional or technical writing.
- Professionalism: Certain phrases, like “Outlined below” or “Provided below,” add a touch of professionalism to your writing.
Cons
- Context sensitivity: Not all alternatives work in every situation, so choosing the wrong one could confuse the reader.
- Tone mismatch: Some phrases may sound too formal or too casual for certain audiences.
- Complexity: While some phrases can add clarity, others may complicate your message if not used appropriately.
Answers To Key Questions “As Follows”
What is the best formal alternative to “as follows”?
The best formal alternatives include “Outlined below” and “As demonstrated here.” These provide clarity and a professional tone suitable for business or academic writing.
Can I use these alternatives in casual communication?
Yes, phrases like “Here’s the list” or “The steps are as follows” are perfect for informal conversations or everyday communication.
How do I know which alternative to use?
Consider your audience and the tone of your message. For formal settings, choose phrases like “Outlined below.” For casual settings, phrases like “Here’s the breakdown” are ideal.
Are these alternatives suitable for emails?
Yes, many of these alternatives, like “Below are the details” and “Provided below,” are ideal for email communication, especially when outlining tasks or providing lists.
Why should I avoid using “as follows” too frequently?
Overusing “as follows” can make your writing sound repetitive and unengaging. Mixing up your language with alternatives helps keep your communication clear and lively.
Conclusion
In professional and personal communication, the way you phrase your points matters. Replacing the overused “as follows” with varied, creative alternatives not only enhances clarity but also keeps your audience engaged.
Whether you’re writing an email, report, or blog post, using different expressions for “as follows” helps you tailor your message to fit the context and audience. With the 35 alternatives listed here, you can now select the one that best fits your communication needs, ensuring that your message comes across effectively.
Hi, I’m Ethan Matthews: I make English easy with my clear and simple teaching style. I love helping learners feel confident in every lesson.