The phrase as well is a common way to say “also” or “in addition,” but many English learners make mistakes with its placement, meaning, and tone. The most frequent errors include putting it at the beginning of a sentence, using it in negative statements, and confusing it with as well as. This guide explains exactly how to use as well correctly, with clear examples and practical advice for everyday English.
Quick Answer: How to Use ‘as well’ Correctly
Use as well at the end of a sentence or clause to mean “also” or “too.” It works best in positive statements and questions. Do not use it at the beginning of a sentence, and do not use it in negative sentences (use either instead). In formal writing, as well is acceptable but can sometimes sound slightly informal; also or in addition may be better choices.
Correct Placement of ‘as well’
The most important rule is that as well belongs at the end of a sentence or clause. It is not a sentence starter.
Correct Examples
- She speaks French, and she speaks Italian as well.
- I am going to the meeting. Would you like to come as well?
- He bought a new laptop and a new phone as well.
Incorrect Examples
- As well, she enjoys painting. (Incorrect – use also or in addition instead)
- I like coffee as well tea. (Incorrect – this should be as well as)
- He didn’t go as well. (Incorrect – use either in negatives)
Comparison: ‘as well’ vs. ‘as well as’ vs. ‘also’
These three expressions are often confused. Here is a clear comparison table to help you choose the right one.
| Expression | Meaning | Position in Sentence | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| as well | also, too | End of sentence or clause | I like jazz, and I like classical as well. |
| as well as | in addition to, and also | Between two items or ideas | She plays guitar as well as piano. |
| also | in addition | Middle of sentence (before main verb) | I also enjoy hiking. |
Formal vs. Informal Tone
As well is neutral in tone. It works in both casual conversation and most written English. However, in very formal writing (such as academic papers or official reports), also or in addition may sound more polished. In emails to colleagues or friends, as well is perfectly natural.
Formal Context
- The report covers sales data. It includes market analysis as well. (Acceptable)
- The report covers sales data. It also includes market analysis. (More formal)
- The report covers sales data. In addition, it includes market analysis. (Most formal)
Informal Context
- I’m bringing snacks. Can you bring drinks as well?
- She’s funny, and she’s smart as well.
Common Mistakes with ‘as well’
Mistake 1: Using ‘as well’ at the beginning of a sentence
This is the most frequent error. As well cannot start a sentence. Use also or in addition instead.
- Incorrect: As well, we need to order supplies.
- Correct: We also need to order supplies.
- Correct: We need to order supplies as well.
Mistake 2: Using ‘as well’ in negative sentences
In negative sentences, use either instead of as well.
- Incorrect: I don’t like that movie as well.
- Correct: I don’t like that movie either.
- Incorrect: She hasn’t finished her work as well.
- Correct: She hasn’t finished her work either.
Mistake 3: Confusing ‘as well’ with ‘as well as’
As well as is a conjunction that connects two items. As well is an adverb meaning “also.”
- Incorrect: He brought pizza as well soda.
- Correct: He brought pizza as well as soda.
- Correct: He brought pizza, and he brought soda as well.
Mistake 4: Overusing ‘as well’ in one paragraph
Repeating as well multiple times sounds repetitive. Vary your language with also, too, or in addition.
- Repetitive: I like reading. I like writing as well. I enjoy cooking as well. I travel as well.
- Better: I like reading. I also enjoy writing. I like cooking too. I travel as well.
Natural Examples in Context
Here are examples showing how native speakers use as well in everyday situations.
In Conversation
- “Are you coming to the party?” “Yes, and my sister is coming as well.”
- “I finished my homework. Did you finish yours as well?”
- “This cake is delicious. The cookies are good as well.”
In Email
- Please review the attached document. I have included the budget spreadsheet as well.
- Thank you for your application. We received your references as well.
- The meeting is at 3 PM. Please bring your reports as well.
In Writing
- The novel explores themes of love and loss. It examines friendship as well.
- The study measured heart rate and blood pressure. It tracked sleep patterns as well.
Better Alternatives to ‘as well’
Depending on the context, you might choose a different word or phrase. Here are common alternatives and when to use them.
| Alternative | When to Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| also | Formal writing, middle of sentence | She also speaks German. |
| too | Informal conversation, end of sentence | I want to go too. |
| in addition | Formal writing, beginning of sentence | In addition, we need more staff. |
| furthermore | Very formal writing, beginning of sentence | Furthermore, the data supports this. |
| either | Negative sentences only | I don’t like it either. |
When to Use ‘as well’ (and When Not To)
Use ‘as well’ when:
- You want to add information in a positive sentence.
- You are speaking or writing in a neutral or slightly informal tone.
- You want to avoid repeating also or too.
- You are answering a question with additional information.
Do not use ‘as well’ when:
- The sentence is negative (use either).
- You need to start a sentence (use also or in addition).
- You are connecting two nouns or verbs (use as well as).
- You are writing very formal academic or legal documents (use also or furthermore).
Mini Practice: Test Your Understanding
Choose the correct option for each sentence. Answers are below.
- I enjoy hiking, and I like camping ______.
a) as well
b) as well as
c) either - She didn’t attend the meeting ______.
a) as well
b) too
c) either - ______, we should consider the budget.
a) As well
b) In addition
c) Too - He speaks Spanish ______ French.
a) as well
b) as well as
c) either
Answers
- a) as well – Positive sentence, end position.
- c) either – Negative sentence requires either.
- b) In addition – Beginning of sentence, formal.
- b) as well as – Connecting two items (Spanish and French).
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use ‘as well’ at the beginning of a sentence?
No. As well should never start a sentence. Use also or in addition instead. For example, instead of “As well, I like reading,” write “I also like reading” or “In addition, I like reading.”
2. What is the difference between ‘as well’ and ‘too’?
Both mean “also” and are placed at the end of a sentence. Too is slightly more informal and common in casual speech. As well is neutral and works in both speech and writing. There is no major difference in meaning.
3. Can I use ‘as well’ in negative sentences?
No. In negative sentences, use either. For example, “I don’t like that movie either” is correct. “I don’t like that movie as well” is incorrect.
4. Is ‘as well’ formal or informal?
As well is neutral. It is acceptable in most contexts, including business emails and everyday conversation. For very formal writing, such as academic papers, also or in addition may be better choices.
Final Tips for Using ‘as well’
- Always place as well at the end of a sentence or clause.
- Never use it in negative sentences.
- Do not confuse it with as well as.
- Vary your language to avoid repetition.
- In formal writing, consider using also or in addition instead.
For more help with common English mistakes, visit our Common Usage Mistakes section. You can also explore Simple Sentence Examples and Daily English Sentences for more practice. If you have questions, feel free to contact us or check our FAQ page.
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