As Follows vs. Follow

Attribute	As Follows	Follow
Definition	Used to introduce a list or example	To go or come after
Usage	Typically used in written communication	Can be used in both written and spoken communication
Formality	Considered more formal	Considered less formal
Meaning	Indicates that what follows is an example or list	Indicates the action of going after someone or something

Introduction

When it comes to understanding the differences between "as follows" and "follow," it is important to consider their usage and meaning in various contexts. Both phrases are commonly used in written and spoken English, but they have distinct attributes that set them apart. In this article, we will explore the nuances of "as follows" and "follow" to help clarify their differences.

Definition and Usage of "As Follows"

The phrase "as follows" is often used to introduce a list or series of items that will be presented in the following text. It is typically used to indicate that what comes next is a continuation or elaboration of the previous statement. For example, "The steps to complete the project are as follows: gather materials, create a timeline, and execute the plan." In this sentence, "as follows" signals that a list of steps will be provided.

Definition and Usage of "Follow"

On the other hand, the word "follow" is a verb that means to come after or go behind someone or something. It can also mean to obey or adhere to a rule, instruction, or principle. For example, "Please follow me to the meeting room" or "Make sure to follow the guidelines for submitting your assignment." In these sentences, "follow" is used to indicate either physical movement or compliance with a directive.

Comparison of Attributes

While both "as follows" and "follow" are related in terms of indicating sequence or order, they differ in their specific functions and grammatical roles. "As follows" is a transitional phrase that sets up a list or series of items, while "follow" is a verb that denotes action or behavior. Additionally, "as follows" is often used in formal writing or presentations to provide clarity and structure, whereas "follow" is a more general term that can be used in various contexts.

Examples of Usage

To further illustrate the differences between "as follows" and "follow," let's consider some examples of their usage in sentences:

• "The schedule for the conference is as follows: registration at 8:00 AM, keynote speaker at 9:00 AM, breakout sessions at 10:00 AM."
• "Please follow the instructions carefully to avoid any errors in the installation process."
• "The steps to reset your password are as follows: go to the login page, click on 'Forgot Password,' follow the prompts."
• "I will follow up with you next week to discuss the details of the project."

Conclusion

In conclusion, "as follows" and "follow" are distinct in their meanings and usage, but they both play important roles in communication. "As follows" is a transitional phrase that introduces a list or series of items, while "follow" is a verb that denotes action or compliance. Understanding the differences between these two terms can help improve clarity and precision in writing and speaking. By paying attention to context and usage, writers and speakers can effectively convey their intended meaning using "as follows" and "follow."