Sometimes, using the same phrase over and over in writing—like “the author states”—can make your work feel repetitive and dull. Whether you’re writing an essay, book review, article, or report, finding fresh ways to express the same idea makes your writing sound smarter and more polished. Plus, using better alternatives adds style, clarity, and professional tone to your work.
This list of 25 powerful alternatives to “the author states” will help you improve your writing, avoid overused phrases, and show your understanding of the material more clearly. These phrases are perfect for academic writing, blog posts, reports, or even everyday communication where you’re discussing a source.
Explore these options and watch your writing stand out with confidence, variety, and flow.
Alternative ways to say “The Author States”
1. The author explains
Explanation: This is a clear and direct way to show that the author is giving more information or describing something in detail.
Usage examples:
- The author explains the reason behind the character’s choice.
- The author explains how the event changed history.
- The author explains the main idea in simple words.
- The author explains the theory using real-life examples.
- The author explains the results clearly and with facts.
Why it works: It shows that the writer is giving detailed or helpful information, making your sentence sound clear and professional.
2. The writer argues
Explanation: Use this when the author is making a strong point or giving an opinion about something.
Usage examples:
- The writer argues that social media harms real communication.
- The writer argues for better school funding.
- The writer argues against this popular belief.
- The writer argues that the system is flawed.
- The writer argues in support of early education.
Why it works: It shows that the author has a strong opinion, which makes your writing sound more active and confident.
3. The author suggests
Explanation: Use this when the writer is giving advice or recommending something in a soft, thoughtful way.
Usage examples:
- The author suggests new ways to reduce waste.
- The author suggests we rethink how we use energy.
- The author suggests taking smaller steps first.
- The author suggests this plan as a starting point.
- The author suggests a different point of view.
Why it works: It’s gentle and helpful when the author is not forcing an idea but giving a thoughtful recommendation.
4. The text reveals
Explanation: This phrase is great when the writing uncovers important information or something not obvious at first.
Usage examples:
- The text reveals the real reason behind the decision.
- The text reveals how the law came to be.
- The text reveals the deeper meaning of the story.
- The text reveals new facts about climate change.
- The text reveals the emotions of the character.
Why it works: It sounds smart and is perfect for analysis writing, helping you sound insightful.
5. The author emphasizes
Explanation: Use this when the author is clearly showing that something is very important.
Usage examples:
- The author emphasizes the need for clean water.
- The author emphasizes how kindness can change lives.
- The author emphasizes the main theme of courage.
- The author emphasizes safety in every step.
- The author emphasizes the urgency of action.
Why it works: It adds focus and strength to your sentence, which is great in academic and formal writing.
6. The author points out
Explanation: This is a helpful way to show that the author is highlighting or calling attention to a specific idea or detail.
Usage examples:
- The author points out the lack of evidence in the argument.
- The author points out how climate change affects farming.
- The author points out the unfair treatment in the system.
- The author points out a flaw in the theory.
- The author points out the need for better health care.
Why it works: It sounds natural and is great when you want to show the author is giving a specific detail or fact.
7. The writer notes
Explanation: Use this when the writer mentions something important or interesting, often in a calm or thoughtful way.
Usage examples:
- The writer notes that many people disagree with the idea.
- The writer notes how times have changed.
- The writer notes an increase in global temperatures.
- The writer notes that the solution is still not clear.
- The writer notes a strong link between the two topics.
Why it works: It’s smooth and works well in essays or reports where you want to sound clear and respectful.
8. The author observes
Explanation: This is great when the author is sharing what they’ve seen, noticed, or discovered.
Usage examples:
- The author observes that kids learn faster through play.
- The author observes a pattern in the data.
- The author observes how habits shape behavior.
- The author observes that few people read newspapers today.
- The author observes a major shift in culture.
Why it works: It gives your writing a thoughtful and careful tone, showing the writer is paying close attention.
9. The author mentions
Explanation: A simple and common way to show that the author briefly talks about something without going into detail.
Usage examples:
- The author mentions the event in the opening paragraph.
- The author mentions past research.
- The author mentions a few examples to support the idea.
- The author mentions the plan’s success.
- The author mentions the struggles of the workers.
Why it works: It’s simple and flexible, perfect for light references to the writer’s words.
10. The text highlights
Explanation: Use this when the writing draws attention to something important or special.
Usage examples:
- The text highlights the value of teamwork.
- The text highlights key points in the study.
- The text highlights the danger of pollution.
- The text highlights the turning point in the story.
- The text highlights cultural differences.
Why it works: It shows that the writing is focused on key ideas, making your sentence sound strong and clear.
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11. The author declares
Explanation: Use this when the author is stating something strongly or with confidence.
Usage examples:
- The author declares that freedom is a basic right.
- The author declares support for equal education.
- The author declares the results are final.
- The author declares change is needed now.
- The author declares a clear message to readers.
Why it works: It shows strength and boldness in the writer’s voice, which gives your writing a serious tone.
12. The writer claims
Explanation: This is used when the writer is making a strong statement, sometimes without full proof.
Usage examples:
- The writer claims that the plan will save money.
- The writer claims a better system is possible.
- The writer claims the results are accurate.
- The writer claims success depends on teamwork.
- The writer claims this is the best solution.
Why it works: It’s useful when you want to show the writer’s opinion or argument, especially in essays or debates.
13. The author refers to
Explanation: Use this when the author is talking about another idea, person, or source.
Usage examples:
- The author refers to past research.
- The author refers to a famous quote.
- The author refers to earlier studies.
- The author refers to the law passed in 1995.
- The author refers to different points of view.
Why it works: It’s great for linking different ideas or sources without repeating the same words.
14. The text discusses
Explanation: This phrase is good when the writing goes into detail about a topic or idea.
Usage examples:
- The text discusses the effects of stress.
- The text discusses different learning methods.
- The text discusses the reasons behind the protest.
- The text discusses gender roles in society.
- The text discusses future plans for growth.
Why it works: It’s smooth and helpful for showing what the writing is all about.
15. The author describes
Explanation: Use this when the author is giving details about something or painting a clear picture with words.
Usage examples:
- The author describes the setting of the story.
- The author describes the feeling of loss.
- The author describes the process in clear steps.
- The author describes the event with great emotion.
- The author describes the characters deeply.
Why it works: It brings out color and clarity in your writing, great for story reviews or book analysis.
16. The writer explains further
Explanation: This is helpful when the writer continues to give more detailed information.
Usage examples:
- The writer explains further about the issue.
- The writer explains further how it works.
- The writer explains further why the choice was made.
- The writer explains further the cause of the problem.
- The writer explains further steps in the process.
Why it works: It shows that more detail is being added, which improves understanding.
17. The author adds
Explanation: Use this when the writer is giving more ideas or supporting points.
Usage examples:
- The author adds another strong argument.
- The author adds more proof to the claim.
- The author adds emotion to the message.
- The author adds a fresh idea to the topic.
- The author adds a final thought to the conclusion.
Why it works: It helps your writing sound like a natural flow of ideas, not a repeat of old ones.
18. The text focuses on
Explanation: This is great for showing the main topic or idea in the writing.
Usage examples:
- The text focuses on teamwork and respect.
- The text focuses on teen mental health.
- The text focuses on historical facts.
- The text focuses on the importance of reading.
- The text focuses on the power of forgiveness.
Why it works: It points clearly to the main subject and makes your sentence sound sharp and direct.
19. The author outlines
Explanation: Use this when the writer is listing the main points or giving a simple summary.
Usage examples:
- The author outlines the main steps clearly.
- The author outlines the goals of the plan.
- The author outlines key events in order.
- The author outlines problems and solutions.
- The author outlines the pros and cons.
Why it works: It adds clarity and structure, especially in academic or formal writing.
20. The writer expresses
Explanation: This is good when the writer is showing emotion or a strong personal view.
Usage examples:
- The writer expresses hope for the future.
- The writer expresses concern over safety.
- The writer expresses a deep love for nature.
- The writer expresses anger at injustice.
- The writer expresses support for change.
Why it works: It brings emotion into your writing, making it more relatable and strong.
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21. The author outlines
Explanation: This is helpful when the author lists key ideas or shows a clear plan.
Usage examples:
- The author outlines the plan for improvement.
- The author outlines reasons for the decision.
- The author outlines key points of the theory.
- The author outlines the story’s main ideas.
- The author outlines the next steps in the process.
Why it works: It makes your writing feel well-organized and shows you understood the structure.
22. The writer shares
Explanation: Use this when the author is offering thoughts, experiences, or opinions in a friendly or open way.
Usage examples:
- The writer shares a personal story.
- The writer shares tips for better writing.
- The writer shares lessons learned.
- The writer shares a helpful viewpoint.
- The writer shares advice for students.
Why it works: It gives a warm, human feel to your writing, perfect for informal or semi-formal tones.
23. The author examines
Explanation: Use this when the author is carefully looking at or studying something.
Usage examples:
- The author examines the reasons behind poverty.
- The author examines the effects of technology.
- The author examines past data closely.
- The author examines the topic from all sides.
- The author examines how habits are formed.
Why it works: It adds depth and shows that the author is being thoughtful and serious.
24. The text covers
Explanation: This is a great phrase when the writing includes many parts of a topic.
Usage examples:
- The text covers several points in the debate.
- The text covers the history of the movement.
- The text covers both sides of the issue.
- The text covers the causes and solutions.
- The text covers facts and opinions.
Why it works: It shows the writing is wide-ranging, helpful for reviews or summaries.
25. The author analyzes
Explanation: Use this when the author is breaking something down to understand it better.
Usage examples:
- The author analyzes the data in detail.
- The author analyzes the causes of war.
- The author analyzes character traits.
- The author analyzes results from the study.
- The author analyzes the poem’s deeper meaning.
Why it works: It shows deep thinking and critical reading skills, which makes your writing sound sharp and smart.
Conclusion
Using the same phrase repeatedly, like “the author states,” can make your writing sound dull or overly formal. By choosing from a variety of alternatives such as “the author suggests,” “the writer notes,” or “the text highlights,” you add more clarity, style, and depth to your sentences. These alternatives also help reflect the tone, purpose, and strength of the original message more accurately. Whether you’re writing an essay, analysis, or report, picking the right phrase makes your work more engaging and professional. Keep this list in mind to make your writing more natural, rich, and easy to follow.
I’m Leo Knox, the wordplay wizard behind WordsTwists.com where I turn everyday meanings into funny, clever, and creative twists. If you’re tired of saying things the boring way, I’ve got a better (and funnier) one for you!