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
the section above
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "the section above" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a part of a text that has been mentioned or displayed earlier in the document. Example: "For more details on the topic, please refer to the section above."
✓ Grammatically correct
Academia
News & Media
Science
Wiki
Alternative expressions(4)
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
60 human-written examples
The section above has addressed the basic principle of the proposed prediction model.
Use the number in the section above instead.
Wiki
The section above illustrates possible scenarios of waste collection through biodegradable waste via bio-digesters.
Academia
The winners will receive the prizes outlined in the section above which relates to the specific Prize Draw or Awards.
News & Media
Please fill out the form following the instructions in the section above.
Academia
The number of green pixels in each square, or box, is determined using the procedure documented in the section above.
Academia
For further information on the topic of peer-to-peer file sharing, see the section above on Copyright.
Academia
As we have noted, most of the land under irrigation in the section above Pathfinder is irrigated from tributaries.
Academia
What to Know About a 457 plan: These are a lot like 401 k)'s, so read the section above to understand them better.
News & Media
Calibration and processing was carried as described in the section above (5D imaging measurements at ID31, ESRF) with X-ray detection again using the Pilatus3 X detector.
Science & Research
Changed verbiage in the section above.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "the section above", ensure that the reference is clear and unambiguous to avoid confusing the reader. It should be immediately obvious which section you are referring to.
Common error
Avoid using "the section above" if the preceding section covers multiple topics. Be specific or use a more descriptive reference to avoid ambiguity.
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "the section above" functions as a directional reference, guiding the reader to a specific part of the text that has already been presented. Ludwig AI examples confirm its role in providing context and linking information within a document.
Frequent in
Academia
25%
Wiki
24%
Science
23%
Less common in
News & Media
20%
Formal & Business
5%
Reference
3%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "the section above" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase to refer to a preceding part of a text. Ludwig AI confirms its frequency across diverse contexts like academia, news, science, and wikis. While generally neutral, ensuring a clear reference is vital to avoid ambiguity. For alternatives, you can use phrases such as "the preceding section" or "the prior section". When using "the section above", ensure the reference is clear, as vague references are the most common error to avoid.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
the preceding section
Replaces 'above' with 'preceding', offering a more formal tone.
the prior section
Substitutes 'above' with 'prior', providing a slightly less common but still understandable alternative.
the foregoing section
Uses 'foregoing' instead of 'above' for a more formal and somewhat archaic tone.
the previous part
Replaces 'section' with 'part', making it less specific but still referring to something earlier.
the earlier section
Emphasizes the time aspect of the reference by using 'earlier'.
as mentioned earlier
Shifts the focus to the act of mentioning, rather than the section itself.
the above-mentioned section
Adds emphasis by explicitly stating it has been 'mentioned'.
refer to what was previously stated
A more verbose alternative that highlights the act of referring back.
see earlier discussion
Replaces 'section' with 'discussion', implying a less structured form of text.
check the prior information
Uses 'prior information' to direct the reader to review previously provided details.
FAQs
How do I use "the section above" in a sentence?
You can use "the section above" to refer back to information previously discussed. For example, "As explained in the section above, this method is highly effective."
What can I say instead of "the section above"?
You can use alternatives like "the preceding section", "the prior section", or "the earlier section" to refer to previous content.
Is it okay to use "the section above" multiple times in the same document?
Yes, but ensure clarity. If you're referring to different sections, consider using more specific references or section titles to avoid confusion.
What's the difference between "the section above" and "the previous chapter"?
"The section above" refers to a part within the same document, while "the previous chapter" refers to a distinct division in a larger work, such as a book or series of articles.
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
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested