Both phrases are correct. “All of the above” is the standard form. “All the above” is a shorter version with the same meaning. If you are unsure which to use, choose “all of the above.” It is the safer, more familiar choice.
What the phrase means
Both phrases point back to items you have already listed. They mean “every one of the things I just mentioned.”
- Every answer option on a test: “All of the above.”
- A list of requirements: “Your application needs a photo, an ID, and a form. All of the above must be submitted by Friday.”
The word “above” works as a noun here. It stands for the earlier list, even if that list is a few lines up the page.
Why both forms work
The word “all” can be followed by “of” or by “the.” Both patterns are normal English:
- all of the books / all the books
- all of the students / all the students
- all of the above / all the above
The “of” is optional when “all” comes before words like “the,” “my,” or “these.” Writers often drop it to keep a sentence shorter. “All the above” follows the same pattern.
Which one should you use?
| Situation | Best choice |
| Multiple-choice answer option | all of the above |
| Formal writing, such as reports or essays | all of the above |
| Forms, surveys, and checklists | all of the above |
| Casual writing or quick notes | either one |
“All of the above” is the form most readers expect, especially on tests and forms. “All the above” is not an error, but it can look slightly clipped or informal to some readers. Pick one form and stay consistent within the same document.
Examples
All of the above:
- Which of these help you sleep better: a dark room, a cool temperature, or a regular bedtime? All of the above.
- The job needs strong writing, good time management, and teamwork. All of the above are required.
- Which of the following are fruits? A) Mango B) Apple C) Orange D) All of the above
All the above:
- Please bring a pen, a notebook, and a calculator. You will need all the above for the exam.
- She checked the lights, the doors, and the windows. All the above were locked.
Both versions read naturally in these sentences.
Verb agreement
“All of the above” can take a singular or plural verb. It depends on what the phrase stands for.
- If it means several separate things, use a plural verb: “All of the above are correct.”
- If it means one combined idea, a singular verb can work: “All of the above is a lot to remember.”
Most of the time you are talking about separate items, so the plural verb is usually the right fit.
Common mistakes
“All of above” leaves out “the.” Write “all of the above.” This is the most common slip.
“All above” also drops a needed word. Use “all of the above” or “all the above.”
“None the above” is wrong. “None” needs “of”: write “none of the above.”
The same pattern works for other quantity words:
- some of the above
- any of the above
- both of the above (for exactly two items)
- one of the above
Quick rule
Use “all of the above” unless you have a reason to shorten it. If you do shorten it, “all the above” is still correct. Always keep “the” before “above.”
FAQs
Can I write “all of the above” at the end of a sentence?
Yes. For example: “We tried the red one, the blue one, and the green one. We liked all of the above.”
Is “all of the above” the same as “all of them”?
The meaning is close. “All of the above” points back to a list or set of options written earlier. “All of them” can refer to anything you have mentioned, even in a single sentence.
Do I need a comma after it?
Only when it starts a sentence and flows into another clause, such as: “All of the above, plus a few extras, made the trip worthwhile.” Otherwise no comma is needed.
Final takeaway
“All of the above” and “all the above” both mean every item already listed. The first is the standard form and the better choice for tests, forms, and formal writing. The second is a shorter variant that is also correct.
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I write clear, practical English lessons for everyday use. On Lingotexting, I break down grammar, vocabulary, and word types into simple ideas you can apply quickly. My focus is accuracy, real examples, and helpful visuals, so learners build confidence, improve writing, and communicate naturally in school, work, and daily life.