a description of how

USAGE SUMMARY

"a description of how" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are giving a detailed explanation of a process, a method, or an idea, for example: The book provides a comprehensive description of how to build a birdhouse from scratch.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The chapter provides a description of how TCP/IP works.

Integrated Security Systems Design Concepts, Specifications, and Implementation

A description of how the copyrighted material will be used.

Columbia University

Here are Trump's seven promises, and a description of how his administration is measuring up.

The Washington Post

"I'm sure he could give a description of how he's been damaged".

The New York Times - Sports

"Gods of Metal is a description of how they could have done it.

The Guardian

"Too often," he added in what could have been a description of how the S.&L.

The New York Times

A description of how the student's expectations are to be met in the other program.

Yale University

A description of how each member of the consortium will participate in the project.

Cornell University

a description of how each prize competition advanced the mission of the Department.

Cornell University

Hotbits, with a description of how they generate true randomness via radioactive decay.

University of California, Berkeley

A description of how the plan will be reviewed and assessed to monitor progress.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a description of how", follow it with a verb that accurately reflects the action or process being described (e.g., "a description of how it works", "a description of how to implement the plan").

Common error

Avoid vague or incomplete descriptions when using "a description of how". Always include sufficient detail so that the reader can fully understand the process being explained. Lack of clarity can render the description ineffective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a description of how" serves as a noun phrase that introduces an explanation or account of a process or method. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is commonly used to provide clarity and detail about how something works or is accomplished.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

30%

Academia

24%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a description of how" is a versatile phrase used to introduce detailed explanations of processes or methods across various domains. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it’s grammatically correct and widely applicable. Its frequency and suitability in both formal and informal contexts, especially within science, news, and academic fields, highlight its importance in clear communication. By providing comprehensive details and avoiding vagueness, writers can effectively use this phrase to enhance understanding. The authoritative sources confirm its wide acceptance and proper usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an explanation of how

Replaces "description" with "explanation", focusing on clarifying the process.

a detailed account of how

Adds emphasis on the thoroughness of the explanation.

an outline of how

Suggests a more structured and summarized explanation.

a breakdown of how

Implies a simplification and step-by-step explanation.

a guide on how

Positions the phrase as instructional, offering practical advice.

elucidation of how

Offers a more formal and thorough clarification.

illustration of how

Focuses on providing examples or visual aids to explain the process.

exposition of how

Suggests a formal and systematic explanation.

portrayal of how

Describes how something looks or appears.

presentation of how

Focuses on the manner of communicating the process.

FAQs

How can I use "a description of how" in a sentence?

You can use "a description of how" to introduce an explanation of a process or method, like in the sentence, "The manual includes a description of how the machine operates."

What phrases are similar to "a description of how"?

Alternatives include "an explanation of how", "a detailed account of how", or "a guide on how", each varying slightly in formality and emphasis.

Is "a description of how" formal or informal?

"A description of how" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, depending on the surrounding language and the audience. It is commonly used in academic, technical, and general writing.

What should I include in "a description of how"?

Ensure you provide sufficient detail, clear steps, and any necessary context to allow the reader to understand the process or mechanism being described. A good "description of how" should be comprehensive and easy to follow.