and / as well as / plus

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Usually, use and.

However, as well as and plus can make it easier for readers to predict and analyze the structure of the rest of a sentence.

Use as well as to set off different items in a list.

Avoid as well as when it might be confused with as good as, especially if you’re writing for an international audience.

No:

You can use the machine to cut wood as well as steel.

No:

You can use the machine to cut wood plus steel.

Yes:

You can use the machine to cut wood and steel.

Yes:

You can use the machine to cut wood, steel, and plastics.

Yes:

We sell computers, software, and T-shirts.

Yes:

We sell computers and software, as well as T-shirts.

(Note: There are two different classes of goods: technical products and clothing.)

Yes:

The form lets you enter your name and other personal data.

(Note: After the word and, this sentence might also continue very differently. Example: “… and if you aren’t careful you might end up on a spammer’s list.”)

Top:

The form lets you enter your name, as well as other personal data.

(Note: Here, after as well as, the reader can expect a noun. This makes the sentence more predictable and easier to read.)

Yes:

The kit includes two cables and a selection of spare parts.

Top:

The kit includes two cables plus a selection of spare parts.

(Note: The word plus clearly signals that you’re talking about a list of things. If you use and, the sentence might also continue very differently. Example: “… and is one of the best on the market.”)

Yes:

You can write manuals as well as online help files.

(Note: This sentence is ambiguous. Does it mean that you can write both manuals and help files? Or does it mean that you’re good at writing manuals and equally good at writing online help files?)

Top:

You can write manuals plus online help files.