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
using what method
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "using what method" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when inquiring about the specific approach or technique being employed in a particular context or situation. Example: "In your research, using what method did you gather your data?"
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Academia
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
4. Abalobi App - Abalobu, which is Xhosa for "fisherfolk", is a mobile application for small-scale fishers to record what they caught, when, where, using what method and for how much they sold it.
The innovation of Abalobi is the fact that small-scale fishermen can record what they caught, when, where, using what method and how much they sold the fish for.
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
58 human-written examples
But how to do it, using what methods and in what kind of schools, is deeply political.
News & Media
A description of how cost and schedule estimates in support of the program are being conducted and using what methods.
Academia
However, regardless of using what test methods or test datasets, one thing is crystal clear, i.e., the overall success rates achieved by the current Plant-mPLoc are significantly higher than those by its counterparts.
Science
Over the last few weeks, I've spent a lot of time talking to family planning specialists about trends in contraceptive use; what methods women prefer, what couples discuss at counseling sessions and ultimately, how access to contraceptives is changing lives.
News & Media
"They teach us what methods to use and how to write".
News & Media
Fiat and Audi, too, have turned to alternative manufacturing methods, using what is known as space-frame construction rather than pressed panels for giving the vehicle strength.
News & Media
The company estimates that setting up a fulfillment solution using their service is a thousand times faster than using what they call 'traditional' methods.
News & Media
Roth wrote using what he called an aleatory method, Mr. Davidson explained.
News & Media
He is a bridge-builder using what many see as unorthodox methods to reach the broader evangelical world.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When writing research papers or technical documentation, use "using what method" to clearly and directly inquire about the specific methodology applied in a study or experiment.
Common error
Avoid replacing "using what method" with overly verbose alternatives. Simplicity ensures clarity and directness, especially in technical or formal writing.
Source & Trust
86%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "using what method" functions as an interrogative phrase. It prompts a request for information about the specific technique or approach employed in a given situation. This is verified by Ludwig's findings, which showcases its usage in soliciting information about methodologies.
Frequent in
Science
40%
News & Media
30%
Academia
20%
Less common in
Formal & Business
5%
Wiki
3%
Encyclopedias
2%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "using what method" is a grammatically correct interrogative phrase primarily used to inquire about specific techniques or approaches employed in various contexts. Though not as common as simpler alternatives like "how was it done?", Ludwig data shows the phrase is suitable for formal and technical writing, especially in science, academia, and news reporting. While "using what method" is deemed correct, consider the audience and context to ensure the level of formality aligns with the intended communication style. Remember to use more concise phrasing when simplicity is desired, and avoid overly complex alternatives.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
What approach was used?
Focuses on the general strategy or way of doing something, omitting the 'using' aspect.
By what method?
A more concise and slightly formal way of asking the same question.
What technique did you employ?
Uses a more formal word, 'technique', and rephrases the sentence structure.
What procedure was followed?
Emphasizes adherence to a specific set of steps or guidelines.
How was it done?
Simplifies the question to focus on the process, losing specificity regarding the method itself.
What system was utilized?
Highlights the use of a structured or organized approach.
Through what means?
A more formal and less common way of asking about the method.
What mechanism was applied?
Suggests a more technical or mechanical process.
What instrument was implemented?
Focuses on the tools or devices used in a specific process.
What was the modus operandi?
Uses a Latin term to inquire about the operational method, significantly increasing formality.
FAQs
How can I rephrase "using what method" to sound more formal?
For a more formal tone, consider alternatives like "by what method?", "through what means?", or "what technique did you employ?".
Is "using what method" appropriate for informal conversations?
While grammatically correct, "using what method" can sound slightly formal. In informal contexts, you might prefer "how was it done?" or "what approach was used?".
What's the difference between "what method" and "using what method"?
The phrase "using what method" explicitly includes the action of 'using', whereas "what method" directly asks for the method without specifying the action.
How to use "using what method" in a research context?
In research, you might ask: "In this experiment, using what method did you control for extraneous variables?" This phrasing is direct and emphasizes the practical application of a technique.
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
86%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested