Finding the right alternative to based on the data can make your writing sound clearer, more precise, and more professional. The best phrase depends on what you are actually trying to say: a conclusion supported by evidence, a decision informed by results, or an observation drawn from available information.
Below, you’ll find natural alternatives for emails, reports, presentations, academic writing, business communication, and everyday professional conversations. Each option includes its meaning, tone, and best use so you can choose a phrase that fits your sentence instead of simply swapping words.
Other Ways to Say Based on the Data
Here are useful alternatives to based on the data, ranging from simple professional wording to more formal expressions:
- According to the data
- Based on the available data
- According to the available information
- From the available information
- Based on the findings
- Based on the results
- Based on the evidence
- Supported by the evidence
- The findings indicate that
- The results suggest that
- The evidence points to
- The available evidence suggests
- The analysis shows that
- The results show that
- Our analysis indicates that
- The figures suggest that
The most natural choice depends on whether you’re reporting information, interpreting evidence, or explaining a decision.
Professional Alternatives to Based on the Data
In workplace writing, you may want a phrase that sounds polished without becoming overly formal. These options work well in reports, emails, presentations, and business documents.
- According to the data
- Based on the findings
- Based on the results
- Informed by the data
- Guided by the findings
- As shown in the results
- In light of the findings
- Considering the available evidence
- Based on our analysis
- According to our analysis
- The results suggest that
- The findings show that
- The evidence supports
For example:
Original:
Based on the data, we should adjust our strategy.
Alternative:
According to the data, we should adjust our strategy.
More polished:
Based on our analysis, we should adjust our strategy.
More evidence-focused:
The findings support adjusting our strategy.
Other Ways to Say Based on the Evidence: 50+ Clear Alternatives
Formal Ways to Say Based on the Data
Formal writing often benefits from precise language. These alternatives work particularly well in reports, research summaries, proposals, and official documents.
- In view of the available evidence
- Based on the available evidence
- In accordance with the findings
- On the basis of the findings
- On the basis of the available evidence
- As supported by the evidence
- In consideration of the findings
- Given the available evidence
- In light of the findings
- As demonstrated by the results
Example:
Based on the data, the company changed its approach.
A more formal version could be:
In light of the available evidence, the company changed its approach.
Use formal alternatives when the surrounding writing is already formal. In a short workplace email, a simpler phrase such as according to the data may sound more natural.
Simple Ways to Say Based on the Data
You don’t always need sophisticated wording. Simple alternatives are often easier for readers to understand.
- According to the data
- The results show
- The findings show
- From the data
- Based on the results
- Based on the findings
- According to the results
- The numbers suggest
- The figures indicate
- The information suggests
These choices are especially useful when writing for a broad audience.
For example:
Based on the data, sales increased in June.
can become:
According to the data, sales increased in June.
Or:
The results show that sales increased in June.
Ways to Say Based on the Evidence
Sometimes data is only one part of the information supporting a conclusion. In those cases, evidence may be the better word.
- Based on the evidence
- Supported by the evidence
- According to the evidence
- In light of the evidence
- Given the available evidence
- The evidence suggests
- The evidence indicates
- The evidence points to
- The available evidence supports
- The findings provide evidence that
- The available information supports
These phrases are useful when discussing conclusions, investigations, research, or documented findings.
For example:
Based on the evidence, the proposed explanation appears reasonable.
You could write:
The available evidence supports the proposed explanation.
The second version makes the relationship between the evidence and conclusion more explicit.
Ways to Say Based on the Results
Results are often more specific than general data. Use these alternatives when referring to an experiment, analysis, survey, test, project, or business outcome.
- Based on the results
- According to the results
- As shown by the results
- As indicated by the results
- The results show that
- The results suggest that
- The results indicate that
- The findings reveal that
- The findings suggest that
- Our results indicate that
- The analysis of the results suggests
- The outcome suggests that
For example:
Based on the results, we recommend continuing the program.
Could become:
The results suggest that we should continue the program.
This version clearly identifies the results as the basis for the recommendation.
Ways to Say Based on the Findings
Use findings when you are referring to conclusions or observations produced by research, analysis, an investigation, or an evaluation.
- Based on the findings
- According to the findings
- In light of the findings
- As indicated by the findings
- The findings show that
- The findings suggest that
- The findings indicate that
- The findings support
- Our findings indicate that
- The analysis found that
- The findings point to
- The available findings suggest
Example:
Based on the findings, several changes may be necessary.
Alternative:
The findings suggest that several changes may be necessary.
This wording can be especially useful when you want to avoid sounding more certain than the evidence allows.
Ways to Say Based on the Analysis
When the statement comes from an analysis rather than raw data, analysis is often the more accurate term.
- Based on our analysis
- According to our analysis
- As indicated by our analysis
- Our analysis shows that
- Our analysis suggests that
- Our analysis indicates that
- The analysis reveals that
- The analysis points to
- The analysis supports
- Our review indicates that
- Our assessment suggests that
For business communication, Based on our analysis is particularly natural.
Example:
Based on our analysis, the current approach is producing better results.
Ways to Say Based on the Numbers
When you’re specifically discussing numerical information, numbers, figures, or measurements can make the sentence more precise.
- According to the numbers
- Based on the figures
- The figures indicate
- The numbers suggest
- The numbers show
- The figures show
- Based on the reported figures
- According to the reported figures
- The available figures suggest
- The latest figures indicate
- The figures point to
- The numbers support
For professional reports, based on the figures is usually more polished than based on the numbers.
Example:
Based on the figures, revenue increased during the second quarter.
Ways to Say Based on the Information Available
Sometimes you don’t have a complete dataset. If your conclusion relies on the information currently available, say so clearly.
- Based on the available information
- According to the information available
- Given the information available
- In light of the available information
- Based on what we know
- From the information available
- Considering the information currently available
- Based on the information provided
- Given the information provided
- Based on the current information
- With the information currently available
This wording is useful when circumstances may change or when the available information has limitations.
For example:
Based on the available information, the project remains on schedule.
This is more cautious than saying:
The project is on schedule.
Ways to Say Based on the Data in an Email
Professional emails usually sound better when the wording is direct and natural. You don’t need an overly formal expression.
Useful options include:
- According to the data
- Based on our analysis
- Based on the results
- The results suggest that
- Our findings show that
- The figures suggest that
- Based on the available information
- In light of the findings
Email Examples
Based on the data, I recommend moving forward.
More natural:
Based on our analysis, I recommend moving forward.
More cautious:
The available data suggests that moving forward may be appropriate.
More direct:
The data supports moving forward with the proposal.
For most workplace emails, direct wording is preferable to phrases such as on the basis of the aforementioned data, which can sound unnecessarily formal.
Ways to Say Based on the Data in a Report
Reports often require precise language because readers need to understand the relationship between evidence and conclusions.
Good choices include:
- The results show that
- The findings indicate that
- The analysis demonstrates that
- The evidence supports
- The figures suggest that
- Based on the findings
- In light of the results
- According to the analysis
- Our assessment indicates that
A useful distinction is certainty.
The data shows that sounds direct.
The evidence supports emphasizes the connection between evidence and conclusion.
Ways to Say Based on the Data in Academic Writing
Academic writing benefits from precise wording and careful claims. Choose an expression that reflects what the evidence actually supports.
Useful alternatives include:
- According to the findings
- Based on the findings
- The results indicate that
- The findings suggest that
- The evidence suggests that
- The analysis indicates that
- The available evidence supports
- The results provide evidence that
- The findings are consistent with
- The analysis demonstrates
- The results point to
Avoid choosing a stronger phrase simply because it sounds more authoritative.
For example, if the results only suggest a possible relationship, the findings suggest may be more appropriate than the findings prove.
Based on the Data vs According to the Data
These expressions are similar, but they can emphasize slightly different things.
| Phrase | What It Means | Tone | Best Use | Avoid If |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Based on the data | A conclusion or decision uses data as its foundation | Professional | Decisions and recommendations | You are simply reporting a fact |
| According to the data | The data provides the information being reported | Neutral | Reports and explanations | You need to emphasize a decision |
| The data indicates | The data points toward a conclusion | Analytical | Reports and analysis | The evidence is extremely limited |
| The data suggests | The data supports a possible interpretation | Cautious | Research and uncertain findings | The conclusion is firmly established |
| In light of the data | The data has been considered when reaching a conclusion | Formal | Reports and formal communication | Casual emails |
Example
Based on the data, we changed the schedule.
This emphasizes the data as the basis for a decision.
According to the data, attendance increased.
This emphasizes what the data reports.
Based on the Data vs Based on the Evidence
These phrases are related but aren’t always interchangeable.
Based on the data works best when numerical, measured, recorded, or analyzed information is central to the statement.
Based on the evidence is broader and can include data, documents, observations, testimony, records, or other supporting material.
For example:
Based on the data, customer visits increased.
works well when discussing numerical traffic figures.
Based on the evidence, the explanation appears plausible.
works better when several types of supporting information are involved.
Based on the Data vs Informed by the Data
These expressions have different emphasis.
Based on the data can suggest that the data directly supports the conclusion.
Informed by the data suggests that the data contributed to a decision, approach, or judgment without necessarily being the only factor.
Compare:
Based on the data, we selected option A.
Our decision was informed by the data, customer feedback, and operational constraints.
The second sentence makes room for multiple considerations.
Based on the Data vs Given the Data
Both expressions can introduce a conclusion, but they create slightly different tones.
Based on the data emphasizes the evidence behind the conclusion.
Given the data emphasizes the circumstances created by the available information.
Examples:
Based on the data, we recommend increasing inventory.
Given the data, increasing inventory appears reasonable.
The second can sound more conversational and concise.
How to Choose the Right Alternative
Start by asking what role the data plays in your sentence.
Use According to the Data When Reporting Information
Choose this when you’re simply telling readers what the data says.
According to the data, website traffic increased by 12 percent.
Use Based on the Data When Making a Decision
Choose this when the data is the foundation for an action or recommendation.
Based on the data, we recommend changing the campaign.
Use The Data Suggests When You Want Caution
This works when the evidence points toward a conclusion without establishing it with certainty.
The data suggests that customers prefer the newer format.
Use The Data Indicates for Analytical Writing
This is useful when the data provides a meaningful indication.
The data indicates that demand is increasing.
Use Informed by the Data When Other Factors Also Matter
This phrase works well when data is one consideration among several.
The final decision was informed by the data and customer feedback.
How to Make Based on the Data Sound Less Repetitive
Repeating the same phrase throughout a report can make the writing feel mechanical. You can vary the wording according to the specific relationship between evidence and conclusion.
Instead of writing:
Based on the data, sales increased.
Based on the data, we changed the campaign.
Try:
The data indicates that sales increased.
The results suggest that customer engagement improved.
Based on our analysis, we changed the campaign.
The goal isn’t to replace every occurrence. Keep based on the data when it is the clearest choice.
How to Use These Alternatives Without Changing the Meaning
Not every synonym has exactly the same meaning. Before replacing the phrase, identify what your original sentence is doing.
If you are reporting, use:
- According to the data
- The figures indicate
you are interpreting, use:
- The data suggests
- The findings indicate
- The evidence points to
you are making a recommendation, use:
- Based on the data
- Based on our analysis
- In light of the findings
If you are describing a decision influenced by several factors, use:
- Informed by the data
- Guided by the findings
- Considering the available evidence
This small distinction helps your writing stay accurate rather than merely sounding different.
How to Make the Phrase More Professional
A professional sentence usually becomes stronger when you identify the specific source of the information.
Instead of:
Based on the data, we made changes.
Try:
Based on the customer survey results, we revised the process.
Or:
Based on our quarterly analysis, we revised the process.
Specific wording gives readers more context and reduces ambiguity.
You can also replace vague words such as data when a more precise term is available:
- Survey results
- Sales figures
- Research findings
- Performance metrics
- Customer feedback
- Financial results
- Test results
- Market analysis
- Operational records
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using Data and Evidence as Perfect Synonyms
Data is a type of evidence, but evidence can include much more than data. Choose the word that accurately describes your source.
Making a Stronger Claim Than the Data Supports
If your information points toward a possibility, suggests may be better than proves.
Overusing Formal Expressions
Phrases such as on the basis of the available empirical evidence may be appropriate in a formal research context but can sound awkward in a normal workplace email.
Replacing Every Occurrence
Variation is useful, but clarity matters more. If based on the data is the clearest phrase, keep it.
Leaving the Source Vague
When possible, explain what data you’re referring to.
Instead of:
Based on the data, we should proceed.
Consider:
Based on the latest customer survey results, we should proceed.
Quick Reference: 30 Strong Alternatives
If you need a quick replacement, these are some of the most useful choices:
- According to the data
- Based on the findings
- Based on the results
- Based on the evidence
- According to the findings
- According to the results
- The results indicate that
- The results suggest that
- The findings show that
- The findings indicate that
- The evidence suggests that
- The evidence supports
- Considering the available information
- Based on our analysis
- According to our analysis
- Our analysis indicates that
- Our analysis suggests that
- Informed by the data
- Guided by the findings
- Based on the available information
- In view of the evidence
Conclusion
There are many natural alternatives to based on the data, but the best choice depends on what you want the sentence to communicate. Use according to the data when reporting information, the data suggests when expressing a cautious interpretation, and based on our analysis when explaining a professional conclusion. For more formal writing, in light of the available evidence can work well. The key is not to replace the phrase mechanically. Choose wording that accurately reflects the strength of your evidence, the purpose of your sentence, and the expectations of your audience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is another way to say based on the data?
Common alternatives include according to the data, based on the findings, based on the results, as indicated by the data, in light of the data, based on our analysis, and the data suggests. The best option depends on whether you’re reporting information, interpreting results, or explaining a decision.
What is a professional way to say based on the data?
Based on our analysis, according to the data, based on the findings, and in light of the available evidence are professional choices. For most workplace communication, based on our analysis is natural and polished without sounding overly formal.
What is a formal way to say based on the data?
Formal alternatives include in light of the available data, on the basis of the findings, in view of the available evidence, and as indicated by the available data. Choose the wording that matches the formality of the surrounding document.
Can I say according to the data instead of based on the data?
Yes, but the emphasis can differ. According to the data usually introduces information reported by the data, while based on the data often introduces a conclusion, recommendation, or decision that uses the data as its foundation.
What is another way to say based on the results?
You can use according to the results, as indicated by the results, the results suggest, the results show, based on the findings, or the findings indicate. Results is especially appropriate for tests, studies, surveys, experiments, and evaluations.
What is another way to say based on the evidence?
Useful alternatives include supported by the evidence, according to the evidence, in light of the evidence, the evidence suggests, and the available evidence indicates. Evidence is broader than data and can include documents, observations, records, and other supporting information.
Is based on the data appropriate for academic writing?
Yes. Based on the data is acceptable in academic writing when the statement accurately describes how data supports a conclusion. Depending on the context, more precise alternatives such as the data indicates, the findings suggest, or based on the results may provide greater clarity.
How can I avoid repeating based on the data?
Vary the phrase according to its purpose. Use according to the data for reporting, the data suggests for cautious interpretation, based on our analysis for analytical conclusions, and informed by the data when the data is one of several factors behind a decision.
What is the difference between the data shows and the data suggests?
The data shows sounds more direct and can imply a stronger relationship between the information and the conclusion. The data suggests is more cautious and indicates that the evidence points toward an interpretation without necessarily establishing it conclusively.
Should I use based on the data or based on the findings?
Use based on the data when referring directly to the underlying information or measurements. Use based on the findings when referring to conclusions or observations produced through research, analysis, evaluation, or investigation. The more specific term is usually the better choice.