Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
I then used
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "I then used" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a sequence of actions where something was utilized after a previous step or event. Example: "After gathering all the necessary materials, I then used the tools to complete the project."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Wiki
Alternative expressions(5)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
37 human-written examples
The bike shop I then used was a courier hangout.
News & Media
I then used a diagram from Ms. Ulrich's site to plan the stapling.
News & Media
Is that right?" I then used this platform of success-talk to widen the conversation to include school.
News & Media
I then used a stud finder to mark the studs, and set to the task of cutting the wood with a circular saw.
News & Media
I then used a tactic suggested by Mr. Verdi — ask for the price with tax and delivery ($5,241.56) before bargaining further.
News & Media
I then used the new Guardian Data API to pull relevant articles and as these are professionally tagged by journalists this makes for more relevant keywords.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
23 human-written examples
Is then using flat Euclidean geometry at the cortical level indispensable?
I then use optimization to predict the form of interaction that will be the most probable to emerge and remain over time.
News & Media
I then use statistics to make sure I'm not artificially overvaluing or undervaluing.
News & Media
I then use this formula to give a new direct proof of the unitary of theK-invariant form of the Segal Bargmann transform (Theorem 2).
I then use the collected imagery to create large-scale graphite drawings and short video pieces.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "I then used", ensure clarity in the sequence of actions. Make it clear what the 'then' refers to by explicitly stating the preceding action in the previous sentence. This avoids ambiguity and improves readability.
Common error
Avoid using "I then used" without clearly establishing the context or prior action. Without a clear reference, the reader may not understand what the "then" refers to, creating confusion. Always ensure the preceding action is explicitly stated.
Source & Trust
85%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "I then used" functions as a declarative statement indicating a sequential action taken by the speaker. It introduces what the speaker did next, following a previous action or event. As Ludwig AI shows, this pattern is used across different domains.
Frequent in
News & Media
35%
Science
35%
Wiki
10%
Less common in
Formal & Business
10%
Reference
5%
Social Media
5%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "I then used" is a common and grammatically sound way to express a sequential action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's frequently found in News & Media and Scientific contexts. While versatile, remember to maintain clarity by establishing a clear prior action. For more formal settings, consider alternatives like "Subsequently, I employed" or "Following that, I utilized". Keep in mind that while generally acceptable, ensuring a smooth and explicit flow enhances overall writing quality. The phrase functions to provide clarity in sequential narratives and processes.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
I proceeded to use
Swaps "then used" with "proceeded to use", indicating a continuation of actions in a particular order.
Subsequently, I employed
Replaces "then used" with "subsequently employed", offering a more formal tone.
Following that, I utilized
Substitutes "then used" with "following that, I utilized", emphasizing sequence and a deliberate application.
I went on to apply
Replaces "then used" with "went on to apply", emphasizing a progression in the action sequence.
Thereafter, I applied
Replaces "then used" with "thereafter, I applied", providing a slightly more formal and concise alternative.
I followed this by utilizing
Replaces "then used" with "followed this by utilizing", focusing on the sequential nature of the actions.
Next, I implemented
Replaces "then used" with "next, I implemented", suggesting a more structured and methodological approach.
Building on that, I employed
Emphasizes that a prior action enables the current use, suggesting a cumulative effect.
After that, I took advantage of
Replaces "then used" with "after that, I took advantage of", highlighting the exploitation of a resource or opportunity.
From there, I leveraged
Replaces "then used" with "from there, I leveraged", suggesting using something to gain an advantage.
FAQs
How can I rephrase "I then used" to sound more formal?
For a more formal tone, consider alternatives such as "Subsequently, I employed", "Thereafter, I applied", or "Following that, I utilized" depending on the specific context.
Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "Then I used"?
While grammatically correct, starting a sentence with "Then I used" can sometimes sound less polished. "I then used" generally provides a smoother flow, but both are acceptable.
What is the difference between "I then used" and "I later used"?
"I then used" implies a direct sequence of actions, immediately after a previous step. "I later used" suggests that the action occurred at some unspecified point after a preceding action; alternatives such as "after that" may be more precise depending on context.
What are some alternatives to "I then used" in academic writing?
In academic writing, you might use phrases like "I subsequently employed", "Following this, I utilized", or "Thereafter, I applied" for a more professional and formal tone. This can help ensure clarity and sophistication in expressing the sequence of actions in your research or analysis.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
85%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested