English Grammar (Reported Speech): Lesson 3-In Academic Writing

Reporting Verbs in Academic Writing

This is the third lesson in our Reported Speech series. Today, you will learn how to use Reporting Verbs in an academic setting.

This type of writing demands requires a good command of English. You must pay particular attention to grammar, syntax, vocabulary and punctuation.

Oftentimes, you need to refer to the work of other authors. The use of appropriate Reporting Verbs will increase the clarity and quality of your final paper.

Reporting Verbs in Academic Writing, Reported Speech, Learn English With Africa, May 2019

Statement

This is neutral and you are merely reporting the contents of the book. There are a variety of words you can use in this context. They are all devoid of judgement and your personal point of view is indiscernible.

Examples

The author says that accuracy is essential when doing scientific research.
The writer states that gender equality is non-existent in the workplace.
In this passage, the author notes that wage-gap situation is changing for the better.
Darwin observes that species share a common ancestor.
The journalist points out that proper investigation was done before the publication of the paper.

Description

You will use these words when the passage you are citing for your academic writing is more detailed or descriptive.

Examples:

The author describes the plight of orphaned children during the Industrial Revolution.
He depicts the ordinary lives of women who worked in textile factories.
She recounts her nerve-racking experience in war-torn countries.
The writer chronicles the everday adventures of working class men during the economic boom.
The biographer defines this period as ‘exciting’ and ‘liberating’.

Reporting Verbs in Academic Writng, Colour (2), Learn English With Africa, May 2019

Theory

You should use specific and concise vocabulary when relating a writer’s theory.

Examples

The author believes that women are equal to men.
The inventor suggests that electricity can be produced from wind.
This artist holds the view that art should be done for art’s sake.
He claims that the earth revolves around the sun.
The essayist advances the idea that modern schools are not better than traditional ones.

Analysis

Sometimes, you will come across passages or books where the author analyses a particular issue. What Reporting Verbs can you use then?

Examples

The author analyses the issue of child marriage and sheds more light on the factors that force young girls to drop out of school.
He considers the fact that this might be detrimental to a child’s wellbeing and future.
She estimates the numbers to be higher than normal.
The reporter scans the results of a report that was recently made available by the government.
The write studies the habits of several indigenous people in South America.

Argument

In some books or texts, authors forward their arguments in a stronger or more enthusiastic way. You should use Reporting Verbs that reflect their position and opinions.

Examples

The essayist argues that women should receive the same wages as men in the workplace.
He contends that the health system is in utter disrepair.
She challenges the status quo and urges the government to implement the proposed measures.
The author disputes the fact that women are equal to men.
The writer insists that the report should be released with immediate effect.

Your Turn: Can You think of other Reporting Verbs and examples specific to academic writing?

Good luck!