30 Other Ways to Say “The Author States” (With Examples)

By Fazal Abbas

Other Ways to Say “The Author States” (With Examples)

In academic writing, essays, or research papers, choosing the right words is crucial to make your writing clear, credible, and engaging. Using the same phrase repeatedly, like “the author states”, can make your text predictable and dull.

This guide provides 30 alternatives to “the author states”, complete with scenarios, examples, tone, explanation, and best-use tips. These alternatives help you vary your phrasing, convey nuance, and make your writing more dynamic and polished.

What Does “The Author States” Mean?

“The author states” is a phrase used to attribute ideas, opinions, or arguments to a source in academic or analytical writing. It signals that the information or perspective comes from the author of the referenced work rather than your own opinion.

Using alternatives allows you to:

  • Avoid repetition
  • Enhance readability
  • Show different nuances, such as agreement, emphasis, or interpretation

When to Use “The Author States”

You can use this phrase when:

  • Citing information from books, articles, or studies
  • Referring to opinions or viewpoints in essays
  • Summarizing research findings
  • Presenting analysis or critique

However, using varied alternatives helps your writing feel less mechanical and more engaging.

Is It Professional or Polite to Say “The Author States”?

Yes, it is both professional and appropriate for academic writing. But overuse can make writing sound monotonous. Replacing it with thoughtful alternatives demonstrates writing sophistication and makes your analysis more compelling.

Complete List of Alternatives

Here’s a list of 30 alternatives you can use:

  1. The author argues
  2. The author asserts
  3. The author claims
  4. The author observes
  5. The author explains
  6. The author notes
  7. The author mentions
  8. The author highlights
  9. The author points out
  10. The author emphasizes
  11. The author reports
  12. The author maintains
  13. The author remarks
  14. The author contends
  15. The author suggests
  16. The author illustrates
  17. The author concludes
  18. The author discusses
  19. The author describes
  20. The author proposes
  21. The author indicates
  22. The author reveals
  23. The author demonstrates
  24. The author affirms
  25. The author observes critically
  26. The author acknowledges
  27. The author clarifies
  28. The author reflects
  29. The author interprets
  30. The author validates

1. The author argues

Scenario: Presenting a viewpoint or reasoning

Examples:

  1. The author argues that climate change impacts are underestimated globally.
  2. The author argues that education reform is necessary for economic growth.
  3. The author argues that technology shapes modern social behavior.
  4. The author argues that public policy must adapt to environmental challenges.
  5. The author argues that early intervention improves student outcomes.

Tone: Analytical, assertive, academic

Explanation: Indicates that the author presents reasoning or logic to support a claim.

Best Use: Research papers, essays, argumentative writing.

2. The author asserts

Scenario: Strong claim or position

Examples:

  1. The author asserts that universal healthcare improves public well-being.
  2. The author asserts that literature reflects social inequality.
  3. The author asserts that renewable energy adoption is urgent.
  4. The author asserts that leadership impacts organizational culture.
  5. The author asserts that globalization affects local economies.

Tone: Firm, confident, academic

Explanation: Shows a strong, declarative statement from the author.

Best Use: Academic arguments, formal essays, persuasive writing.

3. The author claims

Scenario: Presenting a point or opinion that might be debated

Examples:

  1. The author claims that social media affects attention spans.
  2. The author claims that taxation policies shape economic behavior.
  3. The author claims that urban planning influences mental health.
  4. The author claims that online learning is as effective as traditional education.
  5. The author claims that cultural heritage shapes identity.

Tone: Neutral, reportive

Explanation: Indicates that the author holds a point, which may or may not be universally accepted.

Best Use: Essays, reports, literature reviews.

4. The author observes

Scenario: Reporting a notable fact or trend

Examples:

  1. The author observes that social inequalities persist despite policy changes.
  2. The author observes that urbanization affects local ecosystems.
  3. The author observes that reading habits vary across generations.
  4. The author observes that online collaboration increases productivity.
  5. The author observes that historical events shape national identity.

Tone: Neutral, descriptive, academic

Explanation: Shows the author’s careful noticing or noting of patterns.

Best Use: Analytical essays, observation-based studies, descriptive writing.

5. The author explains

Scenario: Clarifying concepts or processes

Examples:

  1. The author explains how renewable energy sources reduce carbon emissions.
  2. The author explains the process of photosynthesis in detail.
  3. The author explains why economic inequality persists.
  4. The author explains the cultural significance of traditional festivals.
  5. The author explains the mechanisms behind social behavior changes.

Tone: Explanatory, clear, instructional

Explanation: Indicates the author provides understanding or reasoning.

Best Use: Academic writing, reports, research summaries.

6. The author notes

Scenario: Pointing out an observation or fact

Examples:

  1. The author notes that effective communication improves team performance.
  2. The author notes that climate policies vary across countries.
  3. The author notes that literacy rates are increasing globally.
  4. The author notes that technology adoption shapes economic trends.
  5. The author notes that dietary habits influence health outcomes.

Tone: Neutral, observant, factual

Explanation: Highlights a factual or noteworthy observation made by the author without strong judgment.

Best Use: Research papers, essays, and reports emphasizing observations.

7. The author mentions

Scenario: Referencing minor points or supporting details

Examples:

  1. The author mentions that social media impacts daily routines.
  2. The author mentions that many students prefer online learning.
  3. The author mentions historical context in the analysis of events.
  4. The author mentions the importance of cultural preservation.
  5. The author mentions recent studies on urban development.

Tone: Informative, neutral

Explanation: Useful for citing smaller points, supporting details, or side notes.

Best Use: Literature reviews, essays, research references.

8. The author highlights

Scenario: Emphasizing key points or arguments

Examples:

  1. The author highlights the significance of mental health in schools.
  2. The author highlights challenges in renewable energy adoption.
  3. The author highlights the role of leadership in organizational success.
  4. The author highlights trends in global migration patterns.
  5. The author highlights the impact of policy changes on communities.

Tone: Emphatic, focused

Explanation: Emphasizes important or noteworthy points that the author wants readers to pay attention to.

Best Use: Essays, presentations, analytical writing.

9. The author points out

Scenario: Drawing attention to an observation or detail

Examples:

  1. The author points out that digital learning improves accessibility.
  2. The author points out the correlation between diet and mental health.
  3. The author points out discrepancies in historical records.
  4. The author points out the importance of social reforms.
  5. The author points out potential errors in previous research.

Tone: Neutral, explanatory

Explanation: Suitable for highlighting specific facts or insights.

Best Use: Analytical writing, essays, literature reviews.

10. The author emphasizes

Scenario: Stressing a key idea or argument

Examples:

  1. The author emphasizes the importance of renewable energy adoption.
  2. The author emphasizes the need for policy reform.
  3. The author emphasizes the role of community participation.
  4. The author emphasizes the significance of historical context.
  5. The author emphasizes the connection between education and social development.

Tone: Assertive, strong, persuasive

Explanation: Shows that the author gives special importance to certain points.

Best Use: Academic essays, reports, persuasive writing.

11. The author reports

Scenario: Presenting findings, data, or results

Examples:

  1. The author reports that unemployment rates have declined.
  2. The author reports a significant rise in literacy levels.
  3. The author reports on the success of environmental initiatives.
  4. The author reports trends in urban migration.
  5. The author reports findings from a recent survey.

Tone: Neutral, factual, professional

Explanation: Suitable for citing research results or factual statements.

Best Use: Research papers, case studies, academic writing.

12. The author maintains

Scenario: Expressing a continued belief or viewpoint

Examples:

  1. The author maintains that education reform is essential for economic growth.
  2. The author maintains that global warming requires urgent action.
  3. The author maintains that collaboration drives innovation.
  4. The author maintains that historical analysis is crucial for understanding trends.
  5. The author maintains that early childhood education shapes future outcomes.

Tone: Confident, assertive, academic

Explanation: Shows a strongly held belief or position maintained by the author.

Best Use: Essays, argumentative writing, literature analysis.

13. The author remarks

Scenario: Casual or reflective observation

Examples:

  1. The author remarks on the changing trends in education.
  2. The author remarks that culture influences social behavior.
  3. The author remarks on the effectiveness of public policies.
  4. The author remarks that technology reshapes communication.
  5. The author remarks on the importance of historical memory.

Tone: Neutral, reflective, casual-professional

Explanation: Often used for commentary or reflective points, lighter than “asserts” or “argues.”

Best Use: Essays, book reviews, reflective writing.

14. The author contends

Scenario: Presenting an argument or viewpoint

Examples:

  1. The author contends that government policy must address inequality.
  2. The author contends that social media shapes public opinion.
  3. The author contends that education reform is overdue.
  4. The author contends that economic policies affect social mobility.
  5. The author contends that urban planning impacts quality of life.

Tone: Strong, argumentative, academic

Explanation: Indicates a point of debate or strong viewpoint, often in persuasive or argumentative writing.

Best Use: Essays, research analysis, argumentative writing.

15. The author suggests

Scenario: Offering advice, solutions, or recommendations

Examples:

  1. The author suggests implementing stricter environmental policies.
  2. The author suggests more research on mental health in schools.
  3. The author suggests adopting innovative teaching methods.
  4. The author suggests policy reforms to improve healthcare access.
  5. The author suggests community programs to reduce unemployment.

Tone: Advisory, constructive, academic

Explanation: Shows that the author proposes a recommendation or solution.

Best Use: Research papers, policy analysis, academic essays.

16. The author illustrates

Scenario: Using examples, case studies, or stories

Examples:

  1. The author illustrates the effects of pollution through city case studies.
  2. The author illustrates leadership styles using historical figures.
  3. The author illustrates the growth of social media platforms.
  4. The author illustrates cultural practices in rural communities.
  5. The author illustrates economic trends with statistical data.

Tone: Explanatory, descriptive

Explanation: Shows the author supports ideas with examples or illustrations.

Best Use: Essays, academic reports, descriptive or analytical writing.

17. The author concludes

Scenario: Presenting final thoughts or findings

Examples:

  1. The author concludes that renewable energy is essential for sustainable development.
  2. The author concludes that education reform benefits society as a whole.
  3. The author concludes that urbanization affects mental health.
  4. The author concludes that policy changes can improve public well-being.
  5. The author concludes that historical awareness shapes cultural identity.

Tone: Definitive, authoritative, academic

Explanation: Marks the final point or summary of the author’s argument.

Best Use: Research papers, academic essays, literature reviews.

18. The author discusses

Scenario: Presenting analysis, debate, or detailed examination

Examples:

  1. The author discusses the impact of globalization on local economies.
  2. The author discusses challenges in implementing education reforms.
  3. The author discusses trends in technological innovation.
  4. The author discusses the effects of urbanization on society.
  5. The author discusses the role of culture in shaping identity.

Tone: Analytical, descriptive, professional

Explanation: Highlights the author’s detailed examination or exploration of a topic.

Best Use: Research papers, analytical essays, literature reviews.

19. The author describes

Scenario: Providing factual details or explanations

Examples:

  1. The author describes the process of climate change mitigation.
  2. The author describes historical events influencing modern policy.
  3. The author describes social behavior in online communities.
  4. The author describes methods used in the research study.
  5. The author describes cultural traditions in different societies.

Tone: Informative, descriptive, neutral

Explanation: Emphasizes the author’s explanation or depiction of facts or processes.

Best Use: Essays, research reports, descriptive writing.

20. The author proposes

Scenario: Suggesting ideas, solutions, or strategies

Examples:

  1. The author proposes new methods for sustainable agriculture.
  2. The author proposes policy reforms to address inequality.
  3. The author proposes integrating technology into education.
  4. The author proposes measures to reduce urban pollution.
  5. The author proposes community-based approaches for mental health.

Tone: Advisory, constructive, professional

Explanation: Indicates the author offers a plan or recommendation.

Best Use: Research papers, academic essays, policy analysis.

21. The author indicates

Scenario: Pointing to evidence or trends

Examples:

  1. The author indicates a rise in global literacy rates.
  2. The author indicates that urbanization affects public health.
  3. The author indicates disparities in income distribution.
  4. The author indicates the correlation between education and employment.
  5. The author indicates that technology adoption is increasing rapidly.

Tone: Neutral, factual, professional

Explanation: Used to signal or show evidence without strong judgment.

Best Use: Academic writing, data analysis, research reporting.

22. The author reveals

Scenario: Presenting findings or new insights

Examples:

  1. The author reveals significant patterns in voter behavior.
  2. The author reveals the impact of climate policies on agriculture.
  3. The author reveals challenges in implementing online education.
  4. The author reveals hidden trends in social inequality.
  5. The author reveals key factors affecting business performance.

Tone: Informative, analytical

Explanation: Highlights discovery or insight provided by the author.

Best Use: Research studies, essays, reports emphasizing findings.

23. The author demonstrates

Scenario: Showing evidence, proof, or reasoning

Examples:

  1. The author demonstrates the effects of pollution on marine life.
  2. The author demonstrates how leadership affects team performance.
  3. The author demonstrates the importance of public health initiatives.
  4. The author demonstrates the link between culture and identity.
  5. The author demonstrates statistical trends in education.

Tone: Assertive, explanatory

Explanation: Emphasizes evidence or proof that supports the author’s argument.

Best Use: Academic papers, research analysis, analytical writing.

24. The author affirms

Scenario: Strongly confirming a statement or idea

Examples:

  1. The author affirms that education is key to social mobility.
  2. The author affirms the importance of renewable energy.
  3. The author affirms that policy reform can drive progress.
  4. The author affirms the role of culture in shaping identity.
  5. The author affirms that collaboration improves outcomes.

Tone: Strong, assertive, confident

Explanation: Shows confirmation or agreement with a fact or argument.

Best Use: Persuasive essays, argumentative writing, research papers.

Read More:30 Other Ways to Say ‘Nice To E-Meet You’ (With Examples)

25. The author observes critically

Scenario: Noting facts with critical insight or analysis

Examples:

  1. The author observes critically that economic growth may widen social gaps.
  2. The author observes critically that urban planning can create inequalities.
  3. The author observes critically the limitations of current educational models.
  4. The author observes critically the influence of media on public opinion.
  5. The author observes critically that policy changes often fail to achieve intended results.

Tone: Analytical, reflective, critical

Explanation: Shows the author is not only noting facts but also analyzing or questioning them.

Best Use: Academic essays, critical reviews, research papers.

26. The author acknowledges

Scenario: Recognizing a fact, limitation, or point

Examples:

  1. The author acknowledges the limitations of the study.
  2. The author acknowledges challenges in implementing reforms.
  3. The author acknowledges the contributions of previous research.
  4. The author acknowledges social inequalities affecting outcomes.
  5. The author acknowledges the complexity of cultural influences.

Tone: Polite, reflective, professional

Explanation: Shows recognition or admission by the author.

Best Use: Academic writing, reflective essays, research papers.

27. The author clarifies

Scenario: Providing explanations or removing ambiguity

Examples:

  1. The author clarifies the methodology used in the study.
  2. The author clarifies differences between two theoretical models.
  3. The author clarifies the impact of policy reforms.
  4. The author clarifies misconceptions about climate change.
  5. The author clarifies the process of urban planning decisions.

Tone: Explanatory, professional, clear

Explanation: Emphasizes that the author makes a point clear or understandable.

Best Use: Academic writing, reports, research papers.

28. The author reflects

Scenario: Sharing thoughts, insights, or contemplations

Examples:

  1. The author reflects on the societal implications of technology.
  2. The author reflects on historical lessons from past policies.
  3. The author reflects on cultural changes in modern society.
  4. The author reflects on challenges in education systems.
  5. The author reflects on the role of ethics in research.

Tone: Thoughtful, reflective, analytical

Explanation: Shows the author is considering or pondering ideas, often for deeper understanding.

Best Use: Essays, reflective writing, literature analysis.

29. The author interprets

Scenario: Explaining or making sense of data, text, or events

Examples:

  1. The author interprets the results of the survey to indicate social trends.
  2. The author interprets historical events as shaping cultural norms.
  3. The author interprets statistical findings to suggest policy implications.
  4. The author interprets literary works to reveal hidden meanings.
  5. The author interprets economic data to predict market behavior.

Tone: Analytical, explanatory, professional

Explanation: Shows that the author offers meaning or understanding rather than just stating facts.

Best Use: Research papers, analytical essays, literature or data analysis.

30. The author validates

Scenario: Confirming findings, evidence, or claims

Examples:

  1. The author validates previous research on climate adaptation strategies.
  2. The author validates statistical results through additional testing.
  3. The author validates the effectiveness of educational programs.
  4. The author validates historical evidence through primary sources.
  5. The author validates hypotheses with empirical data.

Tone: Professional, authoritative, factual

Explanation: Indicates the author confirms or substantiates claims with evidence.

Best Use: Research papers, academic essays, data-driven analysis.

Conclusion

Using varied phrases instead of repeatedly writing “the author states” makes your academic writing:

These 30 alternatives allow you to attribute ideas, arguments, or findings in a way that suits your tone, context, and purpose, whether you’re writing essays, research papers, or literature reviews. By applying them thoughtfully, your writing will stand out as precise, dynamic, and academically sophisticated.

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