“According to” is one of those phrases almost every student or writer uses when referring to information from a source. It’s simple, clear, and fits easily into essays, articles, and reports. But when you start using it too often, your writing can begin to feel a bit repetitive and less interesting to read.

For example, in a research paper, you might notice that almost every paragraph starts the same way “according to the study,” “according to the report,” or “according to the author.”

Even if the information is strong and useful, this repetition can make the writing feel flat. That’s where learning different ways to express the same idea becomes really helpful.

“According” is generally used to show that something is based on a particular source, opinion, or authority. By using its synonyms and alternative expressions, you can make your writing sound more natural, fluent, and professional.

It also helps you avoid repetition and keeps your reader more engaged from start to finish.

Quick Comparison Table

Synonym	Best Used For
According To	General Writing
Based On	Research & Analysis
As Per	Business Communication
Per	Formal Writing
In Accordance With	Official Documents
Pursuant To	Legal Writing
As Reported By	News Articles
In the Opinion Of	Personal Views
As Noted By	Academic Writing
Consistent With	Research Findings

1. According To

Meaning: Based on information from a person, report, or source.

Explanation:
This is the most common phrase used when information comes from another source. It is suitable for academic, professional, and everyday writing.

Examples:

• According to the report, sales increased this year.
• According to my teacher, reading daily improves vocabulary.

2. Based On

Meaning: Using facts, evidence, or information as support.

Explanation:
This phrase is commonly used when a conclusion or decision comes from research, facts, or data. It is especially popular in business and academic writing.

Examples:

• The decision was based on customer feedback.
• Based on recent studies, exercise improves mental health.

3. As Reported By

Meaning: Information shared by a source or publication.

Explanation:
This phrase is frequently used in journalism and news articles. It tells readers that the information comes from a specific report or publication.

Examples:

• As reported by the newspaper, attendance reached a record high.
• As reported by experts, inflation is slowing down.

4. As Stated By

Meaning: Clearly expressed by someone.

Explanation:
Use this phrase when referring to an official statement, comment, or instruction given by a person or organization.

Examples:

• As stated by the manager, the meeting begins at 9 a.m.
• As stated by the policy, refunds are available within 30 days.

5. As Mentioned By

Meaning: Previously referred to by someone.

Explanation:
This alternative is useful when discussing information that has already been brought up in a conversation, report, or article.

Examples:

• As mentioned by Sarah, the project is almost complete.
• As mentioned by the guide, the museum closes early.

6. In the Opinion Of

Meaning: Based on someone’s personal belief or judgment.

Explanation:
This phrase highlights personal viewpoints rather than facts. It is often used in discussions, reviews, and opinion-based writing.

Examples:

• In the opinion of many teachers, reading is essential.
• In the opinion of the coach, teamwork matters most.

7. In the View Of

Meaning: From someone’s perspective.

Explanation:
This phrase is common in formal writing and essays where a person’s viewpoint needs to be presented clearly.

Examples:

• In the view of scientists, climate change remains a concern.
• In the view of customers, service quality has improved.

8. As Per

Meaning: Following a request, instruction, or rule.

Explanation:
“As per” is frequently used in workplace communication and professional emails. It indicates compliance with a particular instruction.

Examples:

• As per company policy, all employees must wear ID cards.
• As per your request, I have updated the document.

9. Pursuant To

Meaning: In accordance with a law, rule, or agreement.

Explanation:
This formal phrase is commonly used in legal and official documents. It shows that an action follows a legal requirement.

Examples:

• The action was taken pursuant to the contract.
• Payments were made pursuant to federal regulations.

10. In Accordance With

Meaning: Following rules, standards, or guidelines.

Explanation:
This phrase is ideal for professional writing and official communication where compliance is important.

Examples:

• The building was constructed in accordance with safety standards.
• We acted in accordance with company procedures.

11. Following

Meaning: As a result of or after something.

Explanation:
This word is often used when information or actions happen because of an event or recommendation.

Examples:

• Following the survey, several changes were made.
• Following expert advice, she changed her diet.

12. In Line With

Meaning: Consistent with something.

Explanation:
This phrase indicates agreement with plans, goals, standards, or expectations.

Examples:

• The proposal is in line with company goals.
• Prices increased in line with market trends.

13. Consistent With

Meaning: Matching facts, results, or expectations.

Explanation:
This phrase is useful when discussing research findings or observations that agree with previous information.

Examples:

• The results are consistent with earlier studies.
• His actions were consistent with his promises.

14. As Indicated By

Meaning: As shown or suggested by.

Explanation:
Use this phrase when evidence, data, or observations support a statement.

Examples:

• As indicated by the chart, profits increased significantly.
• As indicated by customer reviews, the product is reliable.

15. As Noted By

Meaning: As pointed out by someone.

Explanation:
This alternative is popular in academic and professional writing because it sounds formal and authoritative.

Examples:

• As noted by researchers, sleep affects memory.
• As noted by the editor, several revisions were needed.

16. As Observed By

Meaning: As noticed or witnessed by.

Explanation:
This phrase is useful when discussing observations made by people or experts.

Examples:

• As observed by scientists, the species is declining.
• As observed by witnesses, traffic was unusually heavy.

17. As Cited By

Meaning: As referenced by a source.

Explanation:
This phrase is common in research papers and academic writing when citing sources.

Examples:

• As cited by the journal, the study is reliable.
• As cited by historians, the event changed history.

18. Referencing

Meaning: Using information from a source.

Explanation:
This term is often used when discussing supporting information from documents or reports.

Examples:

• Referencing recent data, the author explained the trend.
• Referencing the guide helped solve the issue.

19. Per

Meaning: According to or following.

Explanation:
“Per” is a short and formal alternative frequently used in business communication.

Examples:

• Per company rules, attendance is mandatory.
• Per your instructions, the task has been completed.

20. By the Account Of

Meaning: Based on someone’s report or description.

Explanation:
This phrase emphasizes that information comes from a particular person’s account.

Examples:

• By the account of witnesses, the event was peaceful.
• By the account of staff members, the project was successful.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best synonym for according?

The best synonym depends on the context. Popular alternatives include based on, as per, per, and in accordance with.

Can I use “as per” instead of “according to”?

Yes. “As per” works well in professional and business communication.

Which synonym is best for academic writing?

“According to,” “based on,” “as cited by,” and “as noted by” are excellent choices for academic work.

Is “per” formal or informal?

“Per” is generally considered formal and is commonly used in business documents and reports.

What is the difference between “according to” and “based on”?

“According to” refers to a source, while “based on” refers to evidence used to support a conclusion.

Conclusion

Learning alternatives to “according” is a simple but powerful way to improve your writing. If you’re a student, blogger, content writer, or professional, these expressions help reduce repetition and make your work sound more polished. Start using these alternatives in your emails, essays, reports, and articles. With regular practice, your vocabulary will grow, and your writing will become clearer, stronger, and more engaging.