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
In serial order
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "In serial order" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when referring to items or events arranged in a sequence. Example: "The books were arranged in serial order on the shelf." Alternative expressions include "in sequential order" and "in chronological order."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
Academia
Wiki
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
18 human-written examples
Berdyyeva, T. K. & Olson, C. R. Rank signals in four areas of macaque frontal cortex during selection of actions and objects in serial order.
Science & Research
Our setup has four main sections: the Computer, the Micro controller, the stepper control, and the Etch-A-Sketch, in serial order.
Academia
Subjects recalled each of four sets of 24 items in serial order.
Academia
This task required participants to recall single syllable words in serial order while solving mathematical problems.
The (a) conventional, (b) EDI, and (c) CDI scans in serial order.
The (b) conventional, (c) EDI, and (d) CDI scans in serial order.
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
42 human-written examples
More recent theories of verbal working memory have proposed an important contribution from processes involved in serial ordering of incoming auditory materials [33].
Science
The nature of the n-back task partly supports this interpretation, since the increasing need for control during the temporary storage of information in correct serial order in the n-back task, especially when n>1, has been linked to the MFG [52], [67], and activity in the lateral PFC regions was more generally linked to the need for cognitive control during demanding tasks [16].
Science
As part of termination, each server certifies the transaction and commits it, if doing so induces a serializable execution, i.e., one in which transactions appear to have been executed in some serial order.
Species (y axis) were clustered based on their Bray Curtis similarities and placed in optimum serial order, constrained by the cluster dendrogram (Clarke et al. 2014a).
The three reference resistances are selected by the sense reference decoder in a serial order to determine whether the bits that were read out are '00'01'10', '10', or '11'11
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When describing a process or set of instructions, use "in serial order" to clearly indicate that the steps must be followed in the specified sequence to achieve the desired outcome.
Common error
Avoid using "in serial order" if the sequence of actions or items isn't critical. Instead, use phrases like "in any order" or "randomly" to indicate flexibility in the arrangement or execution.
Source & Trust
80%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "in serial order" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, adjective, or another adverb. It specifies the manner in which something is arranged or performed, indicating a sequence where each item or step follows the previous one. Ludwig confirms its usability in various contexts.
Frequent in
Science
40%
Academia
25%
Wiki
15%
Less common in
News & Media
10%
Encyclopedias
5%
Formal & Business
5%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "in serial order" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to emphasize the importance of sequence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is frequently found in scientific, academic, and technical writings, signifying a need for precision and a specific order of steps. While alternative phrases like "sequentially" or "in sequence" exist, the choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember to avoid using "in serial order" when the sequence isn't critical, and be mindful of the context to ensure clarity in your writing.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
in a specific order
Broadly describes the existence of a particular arrangement without specifying its exact nature.
in sequence
Highlights the arrangement of items following a specific pattern or order.
in a set sequence
Highlights the predetermined and fixed nature of the order.
sequentially
Emphasizes the consecutive nature of the order, focusing on one item following another.
consecutively
Stresses the unbroken sequence, particularly in numbering or arranging items.
in succession
Stresses the idea of one thing following directly after another without interruption.
one after another
Illustrates the order by emphasizing the individual items and their placement relative to each other.
in chronological order
Specifies that the order is based on time, often used when referring to events.
in turn
Implies that each item or person is taking their designated place in the sequence.
orderly
Focuses on the arrangement being neat, organized, and structured.
FAQs
How can I use "In serial order" in a sentence?
You can use "in serial order" to specify that things must be done or viewed in a specific sequence. For example, "The steps must be performed "in serial order" to ensure proper results."
What phrases are similar to "In serial order"?
Alternatives include "sequentially", "in sequence", or "in succession". The best choice depends on the specific context.
When is it appropriate to use "In serial order"?
Use "in serial order" when the arrangement or sequence is important and must be followed precisely. It's especially useful in technical instructions or describing processes where the order matters.
Is there a difference between "In serial order" and "In chronological order"?
Yes, "in chronological order" refers specifically to an order based on time. While something "in serial order" must follow a sequence, that sequence is not necessarily time-based.
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
80%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested