“As follows” introduces information that comes immediately after it, often a list, sequence, explanation, or set of details. Alternatives such as “listed below,” “outlined below,” “the following,” and “namely” work in different sentence structures.
Choose the Best Transition for the Format
- Listed below
- Shown below
- Outlined below
- Detailed below
- Set out below
- Presented below
- Described below
- As listed below
- As outlined below
- In the following manner
- In the following order
- The following
- Namely
- Here’s what
Listed below
Best when the information that follows is presented as a list.
Example: The required documents are listed below.
Shown below
Useful when the reader can see a table, figure, example, or set of items underneath.
Example: The revised figures are shown below.
Outlined below
Suggests a concise summary of points, steps, or proposals.
Example: The main changes are outlined below.
Detailed below
Use when the following section gives fuller particulars rather than a short list.
Example: The eligibility criteria are detailed below.
Set out below
Formal wording common in reports, policies, legal writing, and British business English.
Example: The conditions are set out below.
Presented below
Neutral formal wording for figures, findings, options, or other information.
Example: The three scenarios are presented below.
Described below
Best when the material that follows explains something in prose.
Example: The procedure is described below.
As listed below
Works when the sentence needs an introductory phrase rather than a complete rewrite.
Example: Please provide the documents as listed below.
As outlined below
Useful when referring to a summary or sequence that follows.
Example: The project will proceed in three stages, as outlined below.
In the following manner
Formal wording for explaining how something is done or organized.
Example: The scores were calculated in the following manner.
In the following order
Specific to sequences where order matters.
Example: Please complete the tasks in the following order.
The following
Often the cleanest option because it lets you restructure the sentence without an introductory phrase.
Example: The following documents are required: proof of identity, proof of address, and a signed form.
Namely
Introduces specific items that define or identify what has just been mentioned.
Example: Two issues remain, namely cost and delivery time.
Here’s what
Conversational and direct for informal writing, guides, presentations, or messages.
Example: Here’s what you need to bring: identification, a notebook, and your confirmation email.
Sometimes the Best Edit Is to Remove the Phrase
Instead of writing “The requirements are as follows,” you can often write “The following requirements apply” or simply introduce the list with a clear heading. This is usually tighter and easier to read.