Overview
Academic reporting verbs signal how a source's ideas relate to an argument: demonstrates, argues, suggests, acknowledges, highlights, notes, contends, emphasises, concludes, and proposes. Present simple is typically used for published works that remain relevant; past simple for dated or specific findings.
Academic Reporting Verbs
- stateSmith states that the results confirm the hypothesis.
- argueJones argues that inequality is increasing.
- demonstrateThe study demonstrates that exercise reduces stress.
- highlightThe report highlights the need for reform.
More Academic Verbs
- suggestThe data suggests that prices will rise.
- concludeThe researchers concluded that the treatment was effective.
- noteThe author notes that exceptions exist.
- point outShe points out that the evidence is limited.
Tense in Academic Reporting
- In academic English, reporting verbs in present tense are common for published work.
- ✓Smith argues (present) — the paper still exists and argues this.
- ✓Jones found (past) — the study was completed in the past.
When to use
Literature review
Smith (2020) argues that urbanisation drives inequality.
Data reporting
The results suggest that further research is needed.
Essay writing
The author highlights the significance of the findings.
Citations
As Jones notes, the limitations must be acknowledged.