So, you want to list a few things for your email readers, but you’re unsure whether to use “as follows.”
If you’re slightly worried the phrase is informal or incorrect, you’ve come to the right place.
This article will teach you how to say “as follows” in an email. Then, you can be sure to use an appropriate tone in your writing.
Other Ways to Say “As Follows”
- As outlined below
- Below is a list of
- In the following manner
- As directed
- In the following fashion
- According to the following
- As stated below
- In the subsequent fashion
- Following this
- In the following sequence
- Per the following
- Hereafter
- Here’s how
- What comes next is
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- “As follows” is a great phrase to use in formal emails when listing things or including an attachment.
- “As outlined below” works well as a formal alternative that shows you’ve planned something for the recipient to read.
- You can say “below is a list of” in more informal emails when sharing more information or attachments.
So, read on to learn another way to say “as follows.” We’ve touched on the best formal and informal synonyms to teach you what options you have.
Also, you can read the last section to learn if it’s correct to say “as follows.” Then, you’ll know whether it’s appropriate to include it in your emails moving forward.
As Outlined Below (Formal)
The best formal alternative to use instead of “as follows” is “as outlined below.” This is a clear and direct choice that lets someone know where to find new information.
You can use it when sharing one item (like an attachment or file). It also works when sharing a list (if you have a list of changes you need to run through).
Basically, you can use it when updating the recipient. It’s effective because it lets them know that you expect them to pay attention to what’s outlined.
It tends to work best when writing to employees. You can include it in a bulk email that lets them know where to find new changes.
You can also review this email sample to learn more about it:
Dear All,
As outlined below, you’ll be able to learn more about the upcoming changes.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Kind regards,
Ben Rogers
Below Is a List Of (Informal)
For something more informal, you can write “below is a list of.” It’s a clear and friendly way to provide an update or information when someone is looking for it.
You have multiple options when using this phrase in more informal senses.
For starters, you can use it when writing to an employee. If you have a good relationship with them, it might be worth using a phrase like this (which is more conversational).
Alternatively, you can include it when sending a text containing a list. Of course, this is less common, but it still works well if you’re trying to provide someone with a quick update.
So, check out this email example to learn more about it:
Hi Carla,
Below is a list of all the things we’ve been working on.
I hope you get the chance to review it to learn more about what we do here.
All the best,
Stuart Gonzalez
Alternatively, you can check out this example to learn how to use it in a text message:
Below is a list of what she’s asked me to do. Do you think you can help me complete any of the mentioned tasks?
Is It Correct to Say “As Follows”?
It is correct to say “as follows.” You can use it when you’d like to present an email recipient with a list of items or an attachment.
You can refer to the following email sample to learn how to use “as follows” in a sentence:
Dear Duncan,
The event will continue as follows.
Please review the itinerary and let me know what you think about the plans for the day.
Best regards,
Jon Watkins
However, before using the phrase, you need to know a few things about getting it right.
First, you have to use the correct verb form of “follow.” There is only one correct option, and that is when using “follows.”
Here’s a helpful reminder:
- Correct: As follows
- Incorrect: As follow
- Incorrect: As following
Also, make sure not to include any extra pronouns. These will take away from the meaning of the phrase and make it difficult for the recipient to understand.
For instance:
- Correct: As follows
- Incorrect: As it follows
Before you leave us, don’t forget to bookmark this page! Then, you’ll have plenty of reminders of what to use instead of “as follows” when you next need a synonym.