“As you can see” can sound conversational or assume that the reader agrees with your interpretation. Formal writing is often stronger when it points directly to the evidence instead.
Choose a More Objective Formal Transition
- As shown
- As demonstrated
- As illustrated
- As indicated
- As noted above
- As outlined
- As presented
- The evidence shows that
- The results indicate that
- The data suggest that
- This demonstrates that
- This illustrates
- It is apparent from
- The figure shows
- The table shows
As shown
A concise formal alternative when referring to a figure, table, or result.
Example: As shown in Figure 2, demand rose sharply in April.
As demonstrated
Best when the evidence supports a clear conclusion.
Example: As demonstrated by the results, the intervention improved accuracy.
As illustrated
Useful when a chart, example, or case visually or conceptually shows the point.
Example: As illustrated in Table 3, costs varied substantially by region.
As indicated
A cautious formal choice when evidence points toward a finding.
Example: As indicated by the survey, satisfaction improved slightly.
As noted above
Useful for referring back to information already discussed.
Example: As noted above, the sample was restricted to adults.
As outlined
Best when referring to a process, plan, or set of points previously described.
Example: As outlined in the methodology, interviews were recorded and transcribed.
As presented
Works for data or arguments displayed elsewhere in a document.
Example: As presented in Appendix A, the estimates are sensitive to the assumptions used.
The evidence shows that
Direct wording that centers the evidence rather than the reader.
Example: The evidence shows that waiting times increased after 2023.
The results indicate that
Appropriate for cautious interpretation of findings.
Example: The results indicate that the two groups differed at follow-up.
The data suggest that
A measured academic alternative when the evidence supports but does not prove a conclusion.
Example: The data suggest that uptake was lower in rural areas.
This demonstrates that
Useful when the preceding evidence clearly establishes the point.
Example: This demonstrates that the revised procedure is more efficient.
This illustrates
Best when an example makes a broader point clear.
Example: This illustrates the difficulty of applying a single threshold.
It is apparent from
Formal but stronger than necessary in many cases; use when the evidence is genuinely clear.
Example: It is apparent from the figures that seasonal demand is substantial.
The figure shows
The clearest option when referring specifically to a figure.
Example: The figure shows a steady decline over the study period.
The table shows
The clearest option when the relevant evidence is in a table.
Example: The table shows the number of participants at each timepoint.