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
assisting in preparing
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
'assisting in preparing' is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase can be used to refer to someone helping in the process of getting something ready. For example: The chef asked me to assist in preparing the salads for the dinner party.
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Alternative expressions(14)
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
2 human-written examples
AW participated in developing the methodology of the research, assisting in preparing the specimens, drafting the manuscript and statistical analysis.
Science
Further, where appropriate, staff also facilitate care-recipients to actively participate in the centre by helping out, for example assisting in preparing refreshments.
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
57 human-written examples
He assists in preparing patent applications on inventions from local companies and universities.
News & Media
He has done much to assist in preparing the youth for the battle of life".
News & Media
They assist in preparing pre-segment "packets" of info for hosts and producers, but have no oversight of the on-air product.
News & Media
Anticipating major flooding, the city's mayor, Gregor Robertson, has called on the British Columbia province and federal governments to assist in preparing and financing flood adaptation projects.
News & Media
One was Mr. Moore, who was described in the indictment as a recruiter of straw buyers and who also assisted in preparing false paperwork to submit to mortgage lenders.
News & Media
Mr. Nashiri's lawyers want to meet with him unshackled, asserting that shackling brings back memories of torture and interferes with his ability to assist in preparing his defense.
News & Media
Career counselors may also offer training in interviewing skills and assist in preparing written application materials.
Science & Research
The QuickTools box provides several calculators to begin long-term planning or to assist in preparing a monthly budget.
News & Media
My job is to assist in preparing these reports, which includes doing background research, writing and editing report text, and interacting with the committees of experts engaged for each study.
Science & Research
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "assisting in preparing", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being prepared. Be specific to avoid ambiguity.
Common error
Avoid using "assisting in preparing" in excessively passive constructions. Instead of "The report was assisted in preparing by the team", use "The team assisted in preparing the report" for a more direct and engaging style.
Source & Trust
80%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "assisting in preparing" functions as a gerund phrase, often acting as a noun within a sentence. It describes the act of helping with the preparation of something, as seen in the Ludwig examples.
Frequent in
Science
45%
News & Media
35%
Formal & Business
10%
Less common in
Wiki
5%
Encyclopedias
3%
Reference
2%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "assisting in preparing" is a grammatically correct and versatile gerund phrase widely used to describe the act of helping with preparation. As confirmed by Ludwig, it maintains a neutral tone suitable for various contexts, including science, news, and formal communications. While alternatives like "helping to prepare" or "aiding in preparation" exist, ensuring clarity and avoiding passive voice are crucial for effective usage. The high frequency of the phrase across reputable sources underscores its reliability in both written and spoken English.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
aiding in the preparation of
Uses a more formal synonym for "assisting" and a slightly more elaborate phrasing.
helping to prepare
This is a more concise and informal alternative.
supporting the preparation of
Emphasizes the supportive role in the preparation process.
collaborating on preparation
Highlights a cooperative effort in getting ready.
contributing to the preparation
Focuses on the act of adding to or enhancing the preparation process.
facilitating preparation
Suggests making the preparation process easier.
playing a role in preparing
Indicates involvement without specifying the extent of assistance.
being instrumental in preparing
Emphasizes a key or crucial contribution to the preparation.
lending a hand in preparing
An idiomatic expression indicating help.
providing assistance for preparation
Highlights the act of giving help.
FAQs
How can I use "assisting in preparing" in a sentence?
You can use "assisting in preparing" to describe someone helping with the process of getting something ready. For example, "She was /s/instrumental+in+preparing" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">instrumental in preparing the presentation materials.
What are some alternatives to "assisting in preparing"?
Some alternatives include "helping to prepare", "aiding in preparation", or "contributing to preparation", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.
Is "assisting in preparing" formal or informal?
"Assisting in preparing" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. The level of formality also depends on the surrounding vocabulary and sentence structure.
Which is the correct phrase: "assist to prepare" or "assisting in preparing"?
"Assisting in preparing" is the correct gerund form. "Assist to prepare" is grammatically incorrect. You could say "assist with preparation" as another alternative.
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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