Above vs. As Noted Above

Attribute	Above	As Noted Above
Definition	Located at a higher level or position	Referencing information mentioned previously
Usage	Used to indicate something mentioned earlier in a text or conversation	Used to refer to information provided earlier in a document or discussion
Context	Can be used in various contexts, such as in writing, speaking, or presentations	Commonly used in written documents, reports, and academic papers
Position	Can be used at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence	Typically used at the beginning or middle of a sentence

Introduction

When writing documents or reports, it is common to use phrases like "Above" and "As noted above" to refer to information that has been previously mentioned. While these phrases may seem similar, they actually have distinct attributes that can impact the clarity and professionalism of your writing. In this article, we will compare the attributes of "Above" and "As noted above" to help you understand when and how to use each effectively.

Definition and Usage

The term "Above" is typically used to refer to information that appears earlier in the document or on the same page. It is a concise way to direct the reader's attention to a specific point without repeating the entire sentence or paragraph. For example, you might write, "The results of the study are shown above," to indicate that the data can be found in a previous section of the report.

On the other hand, "As noted above" is a more formal and specific way to reference information that has been previously mentioned. This phrase is often used in academic or professional writing to ensure that the reader understands exactly where to find the referenced information. For instance, you might write, "The methodology used in this study has been described in detail in Section 2.1, as noted above."

Clarity and Precision

One of the key differences between "Above" and "As noted above" is the level of clarity and precision they provide. While "Above" is a simple and straightforward way to refer to information, it can sometimes be vague or ambiguous, especially in longer documents with multiple sections or pages. In contrast, "As noted above" explicitly directs the reader to a specific location, ensuring that they can easily find the referenced information.

Using "As noted above" can also help to maintain a professional tone in your writing, particularly in formal or academic contexts. By clearly indicating where the information can be found, you demonstrate attention to detail and thoroughness in your work. This can enhance the credibility of your writing and make it easier for readers to follow your arguments or conclusions.

Conciseness and Efficiency

While "As noted above" offers greater precision, it can also be more cumbersome and wordy compared to simply using "Above." In situations where brevity is important, such as in emails or memos, using "Above" may be more appropriate to quickly direct the reader's attention without unnecessary elaboration. However, it is essential to consider the context and audience when deciding which phrase to use, as clarity should always be prioritized over brevity.

Ultimately, the choice between "Above" and "As noted above" depends on the specific requirements of your writing and the level of detail needed to effectively communicate your message. By understanding the attributes of each phrase and when to use them appropriately, you can enhance the clarity, professionalism, and impact of your written communication.