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An Overview of Key Components- A Comprehensive Guide to ‘As Follows’ and ‘Follow’

Are as follows or follow: Understanding the Use of These Phrases

In the realm of English grammar, the phrases “are as follows” and “follow” serve as essential connectors that help to structure information and provide clarity. Both phrases are commonly used in various contexts, such as business reports, academic papers, and formal correspondence. This article aims to delve into the usage and differences between these two phrases.

Are as follows

The phrase “are as follows” is typically used to introduce a list or a series of items that follow. It is commonly found in formal writing and is often used in business and administrative documents. For instance, when presenting a summary of points or a detailed explanation, the phrase “are as follows” can be used to signal that the reader is about to encounter a list of specific items.

Example:

The main objectives of the project are as follows:
1. To increase sales by 20% within the next fiscal year.
2. To improve customer satisfaction through enhanced customer service.
3. To expand our market presence by entering new geographical regions.

In this example, “are as follows” clearly indicates that the reader is about to learn the specific objectives of the project.

Follow

On the other hand, the word “follow” is used to indicate that something is to come after another item or point. It can be used as a standalone word or combined with other phrases to convey the same meaning. “Follow” is often used in more conversational contexts or when listing items in a less formal manner.

Example:

The steps to install the software are as follows:
1. Unpack the downloaded file.
2. Run the setup.exe file.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions.

In this example, “follow” is used to suggest that the reader should move to the next step after completing the current one.

Differences and Usage

While both “are as follows” and “follow” are used to introduce lists or sequences of items, there are some key differences in their usage:

1. Formality: “Are as follows” is more formal and is typically used in business and administrative documents, whereas “follow” can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

2. Structure: “Are as follows” is used to introduce a list that is directly related to the preceding text, while “follow” can be used to introduce a list that is related to the preceding text or to continue a sequence of steps.

3. Context: “Are as follows” is often used in situations where the list is expected to be detailed and comprehensive, while “follow” can be used for shorter lists or when listing steps in a process.

In conclusion, understanding the usage of “are as follows” and “follow” can greatly enhance the clarity and effectiveness of your written communication. By choosing the appropriate phrase based on the context and level of formality, you can ensure that your readers easily grasp the information you are presenting.

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