Indicate vs Show: What's the Difference?

In writing, you should aim to be as clear and concise as possible. Show is simpler and more clear than indicate.

• Original: The report indicated there was an increase in crime when youth centers closed down.
• Rewrite: The report showed there was an increase in crime when youth centers closed down.

Unless you are intentionally writing something formal or distant, use show instead of indicate.

Take your writing to the next level:

20 Editing Tips From Professional Writers

Whether you are writing a novel, essay, article, or email, good writing is an essential part of communicating your ideas.

This guide contains the 20 most important writing tips and techniques from a wide range of professional writers.