Quick Answer:
The best alternatives to it states in an essay include it says, it explains, it argues, it indicates, and it suggests. These phrases help you make academic writing more precise, varied, and professional.
Knowing other ways to say it states in an essay can make academic writing clearer, stronger, and more engaging. The phrase is useful when referring to information, ideas, evidence, or claims presented by an author, but repeating it throughout an essay can make your writing sound predictable. Choosing a more precise reporting verb allows you to show whether a source explains, argues, suggests, emphasizes, or simply presents an idea.
For English learners and students, learning alternatives to it states in an essay is especially useful when writing research papers, assignments, analytical essays, and academic responses. These expressions also improve your ability to communicate professionally in English. Just as learners study ways to express excitement in English, understanding academic reporting verbs helps you express ideas with greater accuracy, confidence, and variety.
Quick Categories
Formal alternatives to “it states in an essay”
- It asserts
- It contends
- It maintains
- It emphasizes
Pro Tip: Use stronger academic verbs when the source clearly presents a firm position or argument.
Casual alternatives
- It says
- It talks about
- It points out
- It explains
Pro Tip: Casual expressions can work in general discussion, but academic essays usually benefit from more precise reporting verbs.
Professional alternatives
- It indicates
- It demonstrates
- It identifies
- It highlights
Pro Tip: Choose a professional reporting verb that accurately describes what the source is doing rather than using a stronger verb unnecessarily.
Informal expressions
- It mentions
- It brings up
- It talks about
- It shows
Pro Tip: Informal expressions in English may sound natural in conversation but can weaken the academic tone of formal essays.
“Strong academic writing does not simply report an idea. It shows exactly how the source presents that idea.”
Common Mistakes
1. Repeating “it states” throughout the essay
Mistake: “The author states that education is important. The author states that reading improves vocabulary.”
Better: “The author states that education is important and emphasizes that reading improves vocabulary.”
Why: Repetition makes academic writing less varied.
2. Using “says” for every academic source
Mistake: “The researcher says that social media affects communication.”
Better: “The researcher argues that social media affects communication.”
Why: “Argues” shows that the writer is presenting a position or claim.
3. Using a strong verb when the source only presents information
Mistake: “The article argues that the population increased in 2020.”
Better: “The article reports that the population increased in 2020.”
Why: “Argues” suggests a position, while “reports” is better for factual information.
4. Using “claims” without considering the meaning
Mistake: “The study claims that the treatment was effective.”
Better: “The study reports that the treatment was effective.”
Why: “Claims” can sometimes suggest that the statement requires verification or is being presented as an assertion.
5. Using informal phrases in formal essays
Mistake: “The author brings up an important issue.”
Better: “The author highlights an important issue.”
Why: “Brings up” is conversational and less suitable for formal academic writing.
What Does “It States in an Essay” Mean?
It states in an essay means that an author, source, article, study, or text presents or expresses a particular fact, idea, opinion, or argument in written form.
The phrase is commonly used when introducing information from a source. The verb state means to express something clearly and directly.
Example: “The article states that effective communication improves workplace relationships.”
In academic writing, reporting verbs such as argues, suggests, explains, indicates, and emphasizes can provide more specific meaning than simply using “states.”
When to Use “It States in an Essay”
You can use this phrase when:
- Referring to information presented by a source
- Introducing a quotation or paraphrase
- Discussing an author’s position
- Summarizing an academic article
- Explaining evidence in an essay
- Connecting research findings to your argument
Spoken vs. Written: The phrase is more common in academic and written English than everyday conversation.
Formal vs. Informal: “It states” is formal and appropriate for essays, reports, assignments, and academic discussions.
Is It Professional or Polite to Say “It States in an Essay”?
Polite? ✔️ Yes
Professional? ✔️ Yes
The phrase is grammatically appropriate and professional when referring to information presented by a source. However, the best alternative depends on the exact meaning you want to communicate.
Academic example: “The study indicates that regular reading can improve vocabulary development.”
Instead of automatically using “states,” choose a reporting verb that explains the source’s purpose more accurately.
Pros and Cons of Using “It States in an Essay”
Pros
- Simple and natural: The phrase is easy to understand.
- Formal tone: It works well in academic writing.
- Common usage: Students frequently use it when discussing sources.
- Easy to apply: It can introduce facts, ideas, and statements.
Cons
- Can become repetitive: Frequent use may make an essay sound mechanical.
- Limited meaning: It does not show whether the author argues, suggests, or explains.
- Less analytical: Stronger reporting verbs can communicate more detail.
- May sound generic: More specific verbs can improve academic style.
“The right reporting verb can turn a basic source reference into precise academic writing.”
Other Ways to Say “It States in an Essay” With Examples
These alternatives will help you sound more fluent, confident, and natural in academic writing.
Use them according to tone, context, and purpose to make your essays more precise and varied.
1. Phrase: It Says
Meaning: It expresses an idea or piece of information.
Explanation: This is a simple alternative but is less formal than many academic reporting verbs.
Example Sentence: “The author says that technology has changed modern education.”
Best Use: General writing
Worst Use: Formal analysis
Tone: Simple, neutral, conversational
Context Variability: Casual: “The article says this.” Professional: “The report says that sales increased.” Spoken: “The author says that education matters.”
2. Phrase: It Explains
Meaning: It makes an idea or situation clear.
Explanation: Use this when the source provides information that helps the reader understand something.
Example Sentence: “The article explains why students benefit from collaborative learning.”
Best Use: Academic explanation
Worst Use: Unsupported claims
Tone: Clear, formal, informative
Context Variability: Casual: “The article explains it.” Professional: “The report explains the process.” Spoken: “The author explains why this happens.”
3. Phrase: It Argues
Meaning: It presents and supports a particular position.
Explanation: This is one of the most useful reporting verbs when an author develops an argument.
Example Sentence: “The researcher argues that early education influences long term development.”
Best Use: Academic arguments
Worst Use: Simple facts
Tone: Formal, analytical, assertive
Context Variability: Casual: “The writer argues this point.” Professional: “The researcher argues that policy changes are necessary.” Spoken: “The author argues that education should change.”
4. Phrase: It Indicates
Meaning: It points toward a particular fact, result, or conclusion.
Explanation: This phrase is useful when evidence suggests something without directly proving it.
Example Sentence: “The data indicates that reading regularly improves vocabulary.”
Best Use: Research writing
Worst Use: Personal opinions
Tone: Formal, analytical, precise
Context Variability: Casual: “The results point to this.” Professional: “The findings indicate a significant change.” Spoken: “The evidence indicates that the trend is increasing.”
5. Phrase: It Suggests
Meaning: It presents an idea as possible or likely.
Explanation: Use this when the source does not make a completely definite statement.
Example Sentence: “The study suggests that sleep affects academic performance.”
Best Use: Academic analysis
Worst Use: Certain facts
Tone: Formal, cautious, analytical
Context Variability: Casual: “The article suggests this.” Professional: “The findings suggest a possible relationship.” Spoken: “The evidence suggests that this may work.”
6. Phrase: It Notes
Meaning: It draws attention to a particular fact or point.
Explanation: This concise reporting verb works well when a source briefly mentions an important detail.
Example Sentence: “The researcher notes that vocabulary development requires regular practice.”
Best Use: Academic writing
Worst Use: Major arguments
Tone: Formal, concise, neutral
Context Variability: Casual: “The writer notes this.” Professional: “The report notes an increase in demand.” Spoken: “The author notes that this is important.”
7. Phrase: It Emphasizes
Meaning: It gives particular importance to an idea.
Explanation: Use this when the author strongly draws attention to a specific point.
Example Sentence: “The article emphasizes the importance of effective communication.”
Best Use: Key arguments
Worst Use: Minor details
Tone: Formal, strong, analytical
Context Variability: Casual: “The author stresses this.” Professional: “The report emphasizes customer satisfaction.” Spoken: “The researcher emphasizes the importance of practice.”
8. Phrase: It Highlights
Meaning: It draws attention to an important idea or issue.
Explanation: This is a useful professional alternative when a source makes a particular point especially noticeable.
Example Sentence: “The study highlights the importance of early intervention.”
Best Use: Academic analysis
Worst Use: Unimportant details
Tone: Professional, clear, analytical
Context Variability: Casual: “The article points this out.” Professional: “The report highlights a major concern.” Spoken: “The study highlights this issue.”
9. Phrase: It Asserts
Meaning: It states something confidently or firmly.
Explanation: Use this when an author presents an idea as a definite position.
Example Sentence: “The author asserts that education plays a central role in social development.”
Best Use: Strong positions
Worst Use: Neutral data
Tone: Formal, assertive, academic
Context Variability: Casual: “The writer firmly says this.” Professional: “The researcher asserts that reform is necessary.” Spoken: “The author asserts that the policy is effective.”
10. Phrase: It Maintains
Meaning: It continues to support a particular position or opinion.
Explanation: This is useful when an author consistently defends an argument.
Example Sentence: “The researcher maintains that traditional teaching methods remain valuable.”
Best Use: Ongoing arguments
Worst Use: Simple facts
Tone: Formal, academic, assertive
Context Variability: Casual: “The writer keeps supporting this idea.” Professional: “The author maintains that the approach is effective.” Spoken: “The researcher maintains that this method works.”
11. Phrase: It Contends
Meaning: It argues or maintains a particular position.
Explanation: This formal verb is especially useful in analytical and argumentative essays.
Example Sentence: “The author contends that technology should support rather than replace teachers.”
Best Use: Argumentative essays
Worst Use: Basic facts
Tone: Formal, analytical, sophisticated
Context Variability: Casual: “The writer argues this.” Professional: “The researcher contends that reform is necessary.” Spoken: “The author contends that the policy needs revision.”
12. Phrase: It Claims
Meaning: It presents something as true or valid.
Explanation: “Claims” can be neutral, but depending on context it may suggest that the statement needs evidence.
Example Sentence: “The article claims that social media has transformed communication.”
Best Use: Source analysis
Worst Use: Verified facts
Tone: Formal, cautious, analytical
Context Variability: Casual: “The writer says this.” Professional: “The report claims that costs have decreased.” Spoken: “The author claims that this approach works.”
13. Phrase: It Reports
Meaning: It provides information about an event, finding, or situation.
Explanation: This is especially useful when discussing research findings or factual information.
Example Sentence: “The study reports a significant increase in student participation.”
Best Use: Research findings
Worst Use: Personal opinions
Tone: Formal, factual, professional
Context Variability: Casual: “The article reports this.” Professional: “The study reports a significant change.” Spoken: “The report says that participation increased.”
14. Phrase: It Observes
Meaning: It notices or points out something.
Explanation: This verb is useful when an author identifies an important pattern or detail.
Example Sentence: “The researcher observes that language changes over time.”
Best Use: Academic analysis
Worst Use: Strong arguments
Tone: Formal, analytical, neutral
Context Variability: Casual: “The writer notices this.” Professional: “The researcher observes a clear pattern.” Spoken: “The author observes that behavior has changed.”
15. Phrase: It Points Out
Meaning: It draws attention to a specific fact or idea.
Explanation: This phrase is clear and natural, although “highlights” may sound more formal in academic writing.
Example Sentence: “The author points out that access to education remains unequal.”
Best Use: Important details
Worst Use: Highly formal prose
Tone: Clear, neutral, conversational
Context Variability: Casual: “The writer points this out.” Professional: “The report points out several concerns.” Spoken: “The author points out that this matters.”
16. Phrase: It Demonstrates
Meaning: It clearly shows something through evidence or examples.
Explanation: Use this when the source provides strong evidence supporting a conclusion.
Example Sentence: “The study demonstrates the value of regular vocabulary practice.”
Best Use: Evidence based writing
Worst Use: Unsupported opinions
Tone: Formal, confident, analytical
Context Variability: Casual: “The study shows this.” Professional: “The evidence demonstrates a clear relationship.” Spoken: “The research demonstrates the importance of practice.”
17. Phrase: It Reveals
Meaning: It makes previously unknown information clear.
Explanation: This verb works well when evidence or research uncovers an important finding.
Example Sentence: “The survey reveals significant differences in student preferences.”
Best Use: Research findings
Worst Use: Already obvious facts
Tone: Formal, analytical, informative
Context Variability: Casual: “The survey shows this.” Professional: “The research reveals a significant trend.” Spoken: “The findings reveal an important difference.”
18. Phrase: It Describes
Meaning: It gives information about something in detail.
Explanation: Use this when the source explains the characteristics, features, or situation of a subject.
Example Sentence: “The article describes the challenges faced by modern learners.”
Best Use: Descriptive writing
Worst Use: Arguments
Tone: Formal, clear, informative
Context Variability: Casual: “The article describes it.” Professional: “The report describes the process.” Spoken: “The author describes the situation clearly.”
19. Phrase: It Expresses
Meaning: It communicates an idea, feeling, or viewpoint.
Explanation: This verb works well when the source communicates an attitude or perspective.
Example Sentence: “The author expresses concern about the effects of excessive screen time.”
Best Use: Opinions and views
Worst Use: Statistical data
Tone: Formal, thoughtful, analytical
Context Variability: Casual: “The writer expresses concern.” Professional: “The report expresses support for the proposal.” Spoken: “The author expresses a clear opinion.”
20. Phrase: It Presents
Meaning: It puts forward information, evidence, or an idea.
Explanation: This is a flexible academic verb that works well when introducing information from a source.
Example Sentence: “The article presents several reasons for improving literacy.”
Best Use: Academic summaries
Worst Use: Strong criticism
Tone: Formal, neutral, professional
Context Variability: Casual: “The article presents the idea.” Professional: “The report presents new evidence.” Spoken: “The author presents several arguments.”
21. Phrase: It Identifies
Meaning: It recognizes or points to a particular fact, issue, or factor.
Explanation: Use this when the source specifically names an important element.
Example Sentence: “The study identifies lack of access as a major barrier.”
Best Use: Research analysis
Worst Use: Personal opinions
Tone: Formal, precise, analytical
Context Variability: Casual: “The study points to this.” Professional: “The report identifies several risks.” Spoken: “The research identifies an important factor.”
22. Phrase: It Establishes
Meaning: It demonstrates or determines something through evidence.
Explanation: This strong verb should be used when the evidence provides a solid basis for a conclusion.
Example Sentence: “The research establishes a clear connection between reading and vocabulary development.”
Best Use: Strong evidence
Worst Use: Preliminary findings
Tone: Formal, authoritative, precise
Context Variability: Casual: “The study shows a connection.” Professional: “The evidence establishes a relationship.” Spoken: “The research establishes an important link.”
23. Phrase: It Implies
Meaning: It communicates an idea indirectly rather than stating it directly.
Explanation: Use this when the meaning can be understood from the source without being explicitly expressed.
Example Sentence: “The author’s discussion implies that current policies may need revision.”
Best Use: Textual analysis
Worst Use: Direct statements
Tone: Formal, analytical, subtle
Context Variability: Casual: “The writer seems to suggest this.” Professional: “The discussion implies a need for change.” Spoken: “The author implies that reform is necessary.”
24. Phrase: It Conveys
Meaning: It communicates or expresses a particular idea or message.
Explanation: This is useful when discussing the message or meaning communicated by a text.
Example Sentence: “The passage conveys the importance of patience in education.”
Best Use: Literary analysis
Worst Use: Statistical reporting
Tone: Formal, analytical, expressive
Context Variability: Casual: “The passage communicates this.” Professional: “The article conveys an important message.” Spoken: “The author conveys a strong idea.”
25. Phrase: It Addresses
Meaning: It deals with or discusses a particular issue.
Explanation: Use this when a source focuses on a problem, question, or topic.
Example Sentence: “The article addresses the challenges of online education.”
Best Use: Academic discussion
Worst Use: Simple facts
Tone: Formal, professional, direct
Context Variability: Casual: “The article talks about this.” Professional: “The report addresses several concerns.” Spoken: “The author addresses the issue directly.”
26. Phrase: It Illustrates
Meaning: It explains or makes an idea clearer through an example.
Explanation: This verb is useful when a source uses examples to demonstrate a concept.
Example Sentence: “The example illustrates how communication affects workplace relationships.”
Best Use: Examples and analysis
Worst Use: Bare facts
Tone: Formal, educational, clear
Context Variability: Casual: “The example shows this.” Professional: “The case illustrates the potential benefits.” Spoken: “The example illustrates the problem.”
27. Phrase: It Proposes
Meaning: It puts forward an idea, plan, or possible solution.
Explanation: Use this when the author recommends or introduces a particular approach.
Example Sentence: “The researcher proposes a new approach to language education.”
Best Use: Solutions and ideas
Worst Use: Historical facts
Tone: Formal, professional, analytical
Context Variability: Casual: “The writer suggests a solution.” Professional: “The report proposes several reforms.” Spoken: “The author proposes a new method.”
28. Phrase: It Confirms
Meaning: It provides evidence that supports something already believed or suspected.
Explanation: Use this when evidence verifies a previous finding or conclusion.
Example Sentence: “The latest research confirms the importance of regular practice.”
Best Use: Verified findings
Worst Use: New possibilities
Tone: Formal, confident, factual
Context Variability: Casual: “The study confirms this.” Professional: “The findings confirm the previous results.” Spoken: “The research confirms that the method works.”
29. Phrase: It Shows
Meaning: It makes something clear or visible.
Explanation: This is a simple and versatile alternative, but more precise verbs may be better for formal academic writing.
Example Sentence: “The study shows that students benefit from regular feedback.”
Best Use: General academic writing
Worst Use: Sophisticated analysis
Tone: Simple, clear, neutral
Context Variability: Casual: “The study shows this.” Professional: “The findings show a clear trend.” Spoken: “The research shows that practice helps.”
30. Phrase: It Reports That
Meaning: It gives information about a particular finding or event.
Explanation: This phrase is particularly useful when summarizing research, statistics, or documented information.
Example Sentence: “The report states that employee satisfaction increased during the study period.”
Best Use: Research writing
Worst Use: Personal opinions
Tone: Formal, factual, professional
Context Variability: Casual: “The report says that sales increased.” Professional: “The report indicates an increase in sales.” Spoken: “The report says that the results improved.”
“Do not choose a sophisticated reporting verb just to sound academic. Choose the verb that accurately represents the source.”
Mini Quiz / Self Check
1. Which alternative is best when an author presents a strong position?
A. It mentions
B. It argues
C. It describes
D. It reports
Answer: B. It argues
2. Which phrase is most suitable when research provides factual information?
A. It brings up
B. It claims
C. It reports
D. It talks about
Answer: C. It reports
3. Which reporting verb means that an author communicates an idea indirectly?
A. It implies
B. It confirms
C. It identifies
D. It reports
Answer: A. It implies
4. Which sentence has the strongest academic tone?
A. “The writer talks about education.”
B. “The writer says education matters.”
C. “The researcher argues that education requires reform.”
D. “The author brings up education.”
Answer: C. “The researcher argues that education requires reform.”
Comparison Table: Top Alternatives
| Phrase | Tone | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| It argues | Formal, analytical | Academic arguments |
| It indicates | Formal, precise | Research findings |
| It suggests | Formal, cautious | Possible conclusions |
| It emphasizes | Formal, strong | Key ideas |
| It highlights | Professional, clear | Important points |
| It explains | Formal, informative | Clarifying ideas |
| It reports | Formal, factual | Research information |
| It demonstrates | Formal, analytical | Evidence |
| It identifies | Formal, precise | Key factors |
| It maintains | Formal, assertive | Ongoing positions |
FAQs
What are the best other ways to say it states in an essay?
Some of the best alternatives include it argues, it explains, it indicates, it suggests, it emphasizes, it highlights, and it reports.
What is a more academic word for “states”?
Depending on context, you can use argues, asserts, maintains, indicates, suggests, emphasizes, or reports.
Can I use “says” in an academic essay?
Yes, but “says” can sound less precise. Academic writing often benefits from a reporting verb that shows exactly how the source presents its idea.
What is the difference between “states” and “argues” in an essay?
“States” means the author expresses an idea directly. “Argues” suggests that the author presents a position supported by reasoning or evidence.
How can I avoid repeating “it states” in an essay?
Use different reporting verbs according to meaning. Try explains for clarification, suggests for possibilities, argues for positions, reports for findings, and emphasizes for important ideas.
Conclusion
Learning other ways to say it states in an essay can make your academic writing more precise, varied, and professional. Reporting verbs such as argues, suggests, indicates, explains, emphasizes, and demonstrates help readers understand exactly how a source presents its ideas.
Practice replacing repeated words with context appropriate alternatives instead of changing vocabulary randomly. Pay attention to the strength and meaning of each verb. With regular practice, you can build stronger essays, improve your academic vocabulary, and communicate your ideas with greater confidence.
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Ethan Parker is a professional content writer at Replynst.com. He creates clear, engaging and well-researched articles focused on providing useful information, answering readers’ questions.
