When and How to Use 'The Above Subject/Matter Refers'

Highlighting the clarity and coherence of your written content is essential in various contexts, including legal documents, academic writing, and business reports. The phrase 'the above subject/matter refers' is a powerful tool to ensure readers can easily follow the flow and connect different segments of your text. Let's explore how and when to use this phrase effectively in different contexts.

Legal Documents

Legal documents often involve specific clauses or sections that reference subjects mentioned earlier in the document. Using 'the above subject/matter refers' can enhance clarity and prevent ambiguity. This phrase is particularly useful when you need to connect a specific clause to an earlier mentioned subject.

Example:

Original: In the event of a breach of contract, the penalty clause will apply. Revised: In the event of a breach of contract, the penalty clause referred to in paragraph 3.4 below will apply.

By using 'the above subject/matter refers,' you make it clear which specific part of the document you are referencing, thereby improving readability and reducing the risk of misinterpretation.

Academic Writing

In academic writing, it is important to maintain coherence and provide clear references to previously discussed concepts or theories. The phrase 'the above subject/matter refers' can be used to link back to earlier discussed ideas or theories, helping readers easily follow your arguments and maintain the flow of your writing.

Example:

Original: It is crucial to understand the role of market conditions in influencing economic policies. This concept, previously discussed in section 2, provides a broader context for analyzing the current scenario. Revised: It is crucial to understand the role of market conditions in influencing economic policies. The above subject/matter refers to the earlier detailed analysis in section 2, providing a broader context for analyzing the current scenario.

This ensures that the reader is reminded of the previously discussed topic, thus reinforcing the argument.

Business Reports

In business reports, summarizing key points or directing attention to critical information earlier in the document is essential. The phrase 'the above subject/matter refers' is useful in this context, as it helps maintain focus and ensures that readers can easily locate and understand important information.

Example:

Original: Based on our findings, we recommend a new strategy for market expansion. This recommendation is based on the competitive analysis detailed in the third section. Revised: Based on our findings, we recommend a new strategy for market expansion. The above subject/matter refers to the detailed competitive analysis conducted in the third section, which formed the basis of our recommendation.

This revision not only clarifies the reference but also emphasizes the importance of the earlier analysis in making the current recommendation.

Alternative Phrases

While 'the above subject/matter refers' is an effective phrase, there might be other alternatives depending on your preference or the context. Here are a few suggestions:

The above material refers to: This can be a more generalized phrase, suitable for various types of documents. Previous discussions on: This can be used in academic or business contexts to emphasize the broader topic rather than a specific segment. Earlier mentioned: This can be used in formal writing to remind readers of previously discussed points. The preceding section: More formal, often used in business or technical writing when referring to sections preceding the current one.

It's important to choose the phrase that best fits the context and tone of your document.

Conclusion

Using phrases like 'the above subject/matter refers' in your legal documents, academic writing, and business reports can significantly improve the clarity and coherence of your text. It helps maintain a logical flow and ensures that readers can easily follow the connections between different parts of your document. By understanding when and how to use these phrases, you can enhance the readability and effectiveness of your writing.