Common Mistakes When Using ‘as well’ in a Sentence
The phrase as well is a common English expression that means “also” or “in addition.” However, many learners—and even native speakers—make mistakes with its placement, punctuation, and tone. The most frequent errors include using it at the start of a sentence in formal writing, forgetting to add a comma when it begins a clause, and confusing it with “as well as.” This guide explains exactly how to use as well correctly, with clear examples for everyday conversation, email, and writing.
Quick Answer: How to Use ‘as well’ Correctly
Use as well at the end of a sentence or clause to mean “also.” It is common in spoken English and informal writing. In formal writing, “also” or “too” is often preferred. Do not start a sentence with “as well” in formal contexts. When “as well” begins a sentence, it must be followed by a comma. Avoid using “as well” with a negative verb—use “either” instead.
Where to Place ‘as well’ in a Sentence
The most natural position for as well is at the end of a clause or sentence. This placement works in both conversation and writing.
Correct Placement
- I like coffee. I like tea as well.
- She invited John. She invited Mary as well.
- He can speak French. He can speak Spanish as well.
Incorrect Placement
- I like coffee. I as well like tea. (This sounds unnatural and is grammatically awkward.)
- She invited John. She as well invited Mary. (Avoid placing “as well” before the main verb.)
Starting a Sentence with ‘as well’
You can start a sentence with as well, but only in informal or conversational English. When you do, always add a comma after it.
Informal example: “As well, we need to buy milk.”
Formal alternative: “Additionally, we need to buy milk.”
In formal writing—such as business emails, academic papers, or reports—avoid starting a sentence with “as well.” Use “also,” “in addition,” or “furthermore” instead.
Comparison Table: ‘as well’ vs. ‘also’ vs. ‘too’
| Expression | Placement | Tone | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| as well | End of sentence/clause | Informal to neutral | I’ll have a sandwich as well. |
| also | Before main verb or at start | Neutral to formal | I also want a sandwich. |
| too | End of sentence/clause | Informal | I want a sandwich too. |
Common Mistakes with ‘as well’
Mistake 1: Using ‘as well’ with negative verbs
When the sentence is negative, use either instead of as well.
Incorrect: “I don’t like coffee as well.”
Correct: “I don’t like coffee either.”
Mistake 2: Confusing ‘as well’ with ‘as well as’
As well as is a conjunction that means “and in addition.” It is not the same as as well.
Incorrect: “She sings as well dances.”
Correct: “She sings as well as dances.” (Here, “as well as” connects two verbs.)
Correct: “She sings. She dances as well.” (Here, “as well” means “also.”)
Mistake 3: Forgetting the comma when ‘as well’ starts a sentence
Incorrect: “As well we should bring snacks.”
Correct: “As well, we should bring snacks.”
Mistake 4: Overusing ‘as well’ in formal writing
In business emails or academic writing, “as well” can sound too casual. Use “also” or “in addition” instead.
Too informal: “The report covers sales. It covers marketing as well.”
Better for formal writing: “The report covers sales. It also covers marketing.”
Natural Examples of ‘as well’ in Context
Everyday Conversation
- “I’m going to the store. Do you need anything as well?”
- “She brought dessert. I brought some wine as well.”
- “He’s a great singer. He plays guitar as well.”
Email and Writing
- “Please find the attached invoice. The signed contract is included as well.”
- “We discussed the budget. We covered the timeline as well.”
- “Thank you for your application. Please send your references as well.”
Formal vs. Informal Tone
Informal (conversation): “I’ll have a coffee as well.”
Formal (email): “I would also like a coffee.”
Better Alternatives to ‘as well’
Depending on your context, you can replace as well with these options:
- Also – neutral, works in most situations. Example: “He also enjoys hiking.”
- Too – informal, common in speech. Example: “I like it too.”
- In addition – formal, good for writing. Example: “In addition, we need to review the contract.”
- Furthermore – very formal, used in academic or business writing. Example: “Furthermore, the data supports this conclusion.”
When to Use ‘as well’
Use as well when you want to add information in a natural, conversational way. It is perfect for:
- Casual conversations with friends or family.
- Informal emails to colleagues you know well.
- Adding a second point without sounding stiff.
Avoid it in formal reports, academic essays, or professional letters where “also” or “in addition” is more appropriate.
Mini Practice: Test Your Understanding
Complete each sentence with the correct word: as well, also, too, or either.
- I don’t speak French. I don’t speak German ______.
- She bought a dress. She bought shoes ______.
- He is a doctor. He is a researcher ______.
- We didn’t go to the park. We didn’t go to the beach ______.
Answers
- either (negative sentence)
- as well (or “too”)
- also (or “as well”)
- either (negative sentence)
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use ‘as well’ at the beginning of a sentence?
Yes, but only in informal writing or speech. Always add a comma after it. For formal writing, use “also” or “in addition” instead.
2. What is the difference between ‘as well’ and ‘as well as’?
As well means “also” and usually goes at the end of a sentence. As well as is a conjunction that means “and in addition,” and it connects two parts of a sentence. Example: “She likes cats as well as dogs.”
3. Is ‘as well’ formal or informal?
As well is neutral to informal. It is common in everyday speech and informal writing. In formal contexts, “also” or “in addition” is preferred.
4. Can I use ‘as well’ in negative sentences?
No. In negative sentences, use either. For example: “I don’t like that movie either.” Not “I don’t like that movie as well.”
Final Tip for Learners
To master as well, listen to how native speakers use it in movies, podcasts, or daily conversations. Notice that it almost always appears at the end of a sentence. Practice by writing three sentences of your own using as well, and then replace it with “also” to see how the tone changes. For more help with common English errors, explore our Common Usage Mistakes section. You can also check Simple Sentence Examples and Daily English Sentences for more practice. If you have questions, visit our FAQ page or contact us.