When to Use ‘according to’ as a Linking Phrase
The linking phrase according to is used to attribute information, an opinion, or a claim to a specific source. It signals that what follows is not your own original idea but something you have learned from someone else, a document, a study, or a general authority. You use it when you want to show where your information comes from, making your writing more credible and transparent. For example, you might write, “According to the company policy, all employees must take a break after four hours.” This tells the reader that the rule comes from the policy, not from you.
Quick Answer: When to Use ‘according to’
Use according to when you need to cite a source for a statement. It works best in formal writing, academic essays, reports, and professional emails. It is less common in casual conversation, where phrases like “someone said” or “I heard” are more natural. Always place the source immediately after the phrase: According to [source], [statement].
Understanding the Core Meaning
The phrase according to acts as a bridge between a claim and its origin. It does not mean “in my opinion” or “as I see it.” Instead, it means “as stated by” or “based on the information from.” This distinction is important for learners because using it incorrectly can confuse your reader about who is speaking.
Formal and Informal Contexts
According to is primarily a formal linking phrase. You will find it often in:
- Academic essays and research papers
- Business reports and official documents
- News articles and journalism
- Professional emails that reference policies or data
In informal conversation, native speakers rarely use it. Instead, they might say:
- “The teacher said we have a test.” (not “According to the teacher…”)
- “I read somewhere that it’s good for you.” (not “According to a source…”)
If you use according to in a casual chat with friends, it can sound stiff or overly formal. Save it for situations where you need to show authority or evidence.
Comparison Table: ‘according to’ vs. Other Linking Phrases
| Phrase | Meaning | Typical Use | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| According to | As stated by a source | Formal, citing evidence | According to the report, sales rose 10%. |
| In my opinion | Personal belief | Informal or persuasive | In my opinion, the plan is risky. |
| Based on | Using data or facts | Formal, analytical | Based on the data, we need more staff. |
| As per | Following instructions | Very formal, business | As per your request, I have attached the file. |
| Per | For each or according to | Formal, technical | Per the contract, payment is due monthly. |
Natural Examples of ‘according to’
Here are examples that show how the phrase works in real writing and speech contexts. Notice how the source is always clear.
In Academic Writing
- According to Smith (2020), climate change affects migration patterns.
- The experiment failed, according to the lab notes, because of a calibration error.
- According to the textbook, the Industrial Revolution began in Britain.
In Professional Emails
- According to the schedule, the deadline is Friday at 5 PM.
- We must update the software, according to the IT security policy.
- According to the client’s feedback, they want a simpler design.
In Everyday Conversation (Less Common)
- According to the weather app, it will rain this afternoon.
- According to my brother, the movie is worth watching.
- According to the sign, the store closes at 9 PM.
Common Mistakes with ‘according to’
Learners often make errors when using this phrase. Here are the most frequent ones and how to fix them.
Mistake 1: Using ‘according to’ for Your Own Opinion
Wrong: According to me, this is the best solution.
Right: In my opinion, this is the best solution.
Why: You cannot be your own source. Use “in my opinion” or “I believe” instead.
Mistake 2: Forgetting the Source
Wrong: According to, the meeting is cancelled.
Right: According to the manager, the meeting is cancelled.
Why: The phrase always needs a noun or noun phrase after it to name the source.
Mistake 3: Using It with ‘that’
Wrong: According to that the study shows results.
Right: According to the study, the results are positive.
Why: Do not add “that” after “according to.” The source comes directly after the phrase.
Mistake 4: Confusing ‘according to’ with ‘because of’
Wrong: According to the rain, the game was cancelled.
Right: Because of the rain, the game was cancelled.
Why: “According to” introduces a source of information, not a reason or cause.
Better Alternatives to ‘according to’
Sometimes you need variety in your writing. Here are alternatives that work in different contexts.
For Formal Writing
- As stated by – “As stated by the author, the theory is outdated.”
- Based on – “Based on the evidence, we can conclude.”
- In the words of – “In the words of the CEO, growth is our priority.”
For Business or Instructions
- As per – “As per the agreement, delivery is free.”
- Per – “Per the guidelines, wear safety gear.”
For Informal Situations
- Someone said – “The teacher said we have homework.”
- I heard – “I heard the store is closing.”
- It says – “It says online that the event is free.”
When to Use ‘according to’ (and When Not To)
Use according to when:
- You want to give credit to a source.
- You are writing a formal document or essay.
- You need to show that a claim is not your own.
- You are referencing a study, report, policy, or authority.
Avoid it when:
- You are expressing your own opinion.
- You are having a casual conversation.
- The source is obvious or unnecessary.
- You mean “because of” or “due to.”
Mini Practice: Test Your Understanding
Complete each sentence with the correct phrase: according to, in my opinion, or because of.
- ______ the doctor, you should rest for two days.
- ______, this restaurant serves the best pasta in town.
- The flight was delayed ______ the storm.
- ______ the contract, you must give two weeks’ notice.
Answers:
- According to
- In my opinion
- because of
- According to
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use ‘according to’ at the end of a sentence?
Yes, but it is less common. For example: “The policy is clear, according to the manager.” However, placing it at the beginning is more natural and easier to read.
2. Is ‘according to’ followed by a comma?
Yes, when it starts a sentence. Write: “According to the report, sales increased.” When it appears later, you may or may not need commas depending on the sentence structure.
3. Can I use ‘according to’ with a person’s name?
Yes. For example: “According to Dr. Lee, exercise improves memory.” You can use full names, titles, or roles.
4. What is the difference between ‘according to’ and ‘as per’?
“According to” is more general and can refer to people, documents, or studies. “As per” is very formal and usually refers to instructions, requests, or rules. For example: “As per your request” is common in business emails, but “according to your request” sounds less natural.
For more help with linking phrases, explore our guides on Essay Starters and Transition Word Examples. If you have questions about this topic, visit our FAQ page or contact us directly. We also cover Common Writing Mistakes to help you avoid errors like the ones above.
