The phrase “please keep me updated” is a polite way to ask someone for progress or new information, but using it too often can feel repetitive or overly formal. Depending on your tone, you might prefer alternatives like “let me know how things are going,” “keep me posted,” or “share any updates when you can.”
Whether you’re writing an email, collaborating on a project, or checking in with a colleague, having different ways to express this request keeps your communication clear and natural. This guide shares effective and professional alternatives to “please keep me updated” for different situations.
Definition and Context
The phrase “Please keep me updated” is a polite request for someone to provide you with new information or developments regarding a particular situation, project, or task. It implies that you are interested in staying informed and that you value the other person’s communication.
The effectiveness of this phrase lies in its simplicity and directness. However, its generic nature can sometimes make it less impactful than more tailored alternatives.
The context in which you use the phrase is crucial. In formal settings, such as business emails or official reports, a more professional and specific request might be preferable.
In informal settings, like casual conversations with colleagues or friends, “Please keep me updated” is perfectly acceptable. Understanding the nuances of different situations allows you to choose the most appropriate and effective way to ask for information.
The function of this phrase is twofold: to express your need for information and to encourage the other person to actively provide it. By using alternative phrases, you can refine this function, specifying the type of information you need, the frequency of updates you desire, and the level of detail you require.
This leads to clearer communication and a more efficient exchange of information.
Structural Breakdown
The basic structure of “Please keep me updated” consists of:
- “Please”: A polite introductory word.
- “keep”: A verb indicating the action of maintaining a state.
- “me”: A pronoun referring to the person requesting the update.
- “updated”: An adjective describing the desired state of being informed.
Alternative phrases often follow a similar structure, but with variations in vocabulary and grammar. They might include:
- Varying the verb: Instead of “keep,” you could use “inform,” “advise,” or “notify.”
- Specifying the subject: Instead of “me,” you could be more specific, e.g., “the team,” “the stakeholders.”
- Adding details: You can include information about frequency, method of communication, or specific aspects of the topic.
Understanding these structural elements allows you to deconstruct and reconstruct the phrase to create alternatives that precisely match your needs. For example, “Kindly inform me of any progress” maintains the politeness but replaces “keep” with “inform” and adds “of any progress” for specificity.
Other Ways to Say Please Keep Me Updated

Formal Requests
Formal requests are suitable for professional settings, such as emails to superiors, official reports, or presentations. These phrases tend to be more polite, precise, and avoid colloquialisms.
Informal Requests
Informal requests are appropriate for casual conversations with colleagues, friends, or acquaintances. These phrases are often more relaxed and conversational.
Specific Information Requests
These phrases focus on requesting particular details or aspects of a situation. They are useful when you need information about a specific area of a project or task.
Deadline-Oriented Requests
These phrases emphasize the importance of receiving updates by a certain time. They are helpful when you need information to make a decision or meet a deadline.
Proactive Requests
These phrases encourage the other person to provide updates regularly, even without being explicitly asked. They are suitable for situations where frequent communication is essential.
Examples
The following sections provide examples of alternative phrases, categorized by their level of formality and specificity. Each table offers a variety of options to suit different contexts.
Formal Examples
This table presents formal alternatives to “Please keep me updated,” suitable for professional communication.
Alternative Phrase | Context |
---|---|
Kindly inform me of any developments. | Email to a senior manager about a project. |
Please advise me on the progress of this matter. | Formal letter regarding an ongoing investigation. |
I would appreciate it if you could provide me with regular updates. | Request to a team member for project status. |
Your insights into this issue would be greatly valued. | Seeking expert opinion on a complex problem. |
Please keep me apprised of any changes. | Email to a supervisor regarding policy updates. |
I would be grateful for updates at your earliest convenience. | Requesting information from a busy colleague. |
Could you provide me with a status report on this project? | Requesting a formal update on project progress. |
I look forward to receiving your feedback on this matter. | Requesting feedback on a submitted proposal. |
Please notify me of any significant milestones achieved. | Tracking progress on a large project. |
I request that you keep me informed of any relevant information. | Formal request for information on a specific topic. |
Your prompt attention to this matter is appreciated. | Emphasizing the urgency of the update. |
I would be thankful if you could furnish me with updates. | Politely requesting updates in a formal setting. |
Please ensure I am kept in the loop regarding this issue. | Making sure to be included in communications. |
I value your input and would appreciate regular updates. | Expressing the importance of the updates. |
Kindly update me on the situation as soon as possible. | Requesting immediate updates in a formal context. |
I would appreciate you sharing the latest information when available. | Email to a senior manager about a project. |
Please brief me on the key developments. | Formal letter regarding an ongoing investigation. |
I anticipate receiving regular updates on the matter. | Request to a team member for project status. |
I’d be thankful for your thorough account on the situation. | Seeking expert opinion on a complex problem. |
Please update me when it is convenient for you. | Email to a supervisor regarding policy updates. |
I am eager to hear about the progress of the project. | Requesting information from a busy colleague. |
Could you provide me with a summary of the key points? | Requesting a formal update on project progress. |
I welcome your insights on this sensitive matter. | Requesting feedback on a submitted proposal. |
Please inform me of any alterations to the plan. | Tracking progress on a large project. |
I implore you to keep me aware of any pertinent details. | Formal request for information on a specific topic. |
Informal Examples
This table provides informal alternatives to “Please keep me updated,” suitable for casual communication.
Alternative Phrase | Context |
---|---|
Let me know what’s happening. | Casual conversation with a colleague. |
Keep me in the loop. | Informal email to a friend about a project. |
Fill me in on the details. | Asking a teammate for information. |
Give me the lowdown. | Requesting a quick update from a friend. |
What’s the latest? | Checking in with a colleague about a task. |
Keep me posted. | Casual request for updates. |
Tell me how it goes. | Asking for an update after a meeting. |
Let me know if anything changes. | Requesting updates on a dynamic situation. |
Hit me up with the news. | Informal request for updates via text. |
What’s new? | Casual way to ask for updates in a conversation. |
Keep me informed. | Friendly reminder to provide updates. |
Give me a shout when you know more. | Informal request for updates. |
Let me know the scoop. | Asking for the latest information. |
Keep me up-to-date. | Informal way to request regular updates. |
What’s the buzz? | Asking for the latest news or updates. |
Let me know when you have any news. | Casual conversation with a colleague. |
Keep me in the know. | Informal email to a friend about a project. |
Tell me all about it. | Asking a teammate for information. |
Give me the inside scoop. | Requesting a quick update from a friend. |
What’s the word? | Checking in with a colleague about a task. |
Keep me in mind. | Casual request for updates. |
Tell me what happens. | Asking for an update after a meeting. |
Let me know if there are any developments. | Requesting updates on a dynamic situation. |
Drop me a line with the latest. | Informal request for updates via text. |
What’s cooking? | Casual way to ask for updates in a conversation. |
Specific Information Examples
This table presents phrases that request specific information or aspects of a situation.
Alternative Phrase | Context |
---|---|
Please let me know the status of the budget approval. | Requesting information about budget approval. |
Can you update me on the progress of the design phase? | Requesting specific details about the design phase. |
I’d like to know when the report will be finalized. | Requesting the completion date of a report. |
Could you inform me about the results of the user testing? | Requesting specific results from user testing. |
Please advise me on the next steps for this project. | Requesting guidance on future actions. |
What’s the timeline for the rollout? | Requesting information about the project timeline. |
Can you let me know if there are any roadblocks? | Requesting information about potential obstacles. |
I’m interested in knowing the customer feedback. | Requesting information about customer opinions. |
What are the key performance indicators (KPIs) looking like? | Requesting information about performance metrics. |
Please share the details of the new marketing campaign. | Requesting information about a specific campaign. |
Please let me know the figures for the last quarter. | Requesting information about the financial figures. |
Can you update me on the progress of the new software? | Requesting specific details about the software. |
I’d like to know when the deal will be closed. | Requesting the completion date of a deal. |
Could you inform me about the feedback of the new product? | Requesting specific results from product feedback. |
Please advise me on the risks for this project. | Requesting guidance on possible risks. |
What’s the budget for the project? | Requesting information about the project budget. |
Can you let me know if there are any unexpected issues? | Requesting information about potential problems. |
I’m interested in knowing the sales data. | Requesting information about sales figures. |
What are the customer satisfaction scores? | Requesting information about satisfaction metrics. |
Please share the details of the new training program. | Requesting information about a specific program. |
Please let me know the specifics of the agreement. | Requesting information about the agreement. |
Can you update me on the progress of the recruitment? | Requesting specific details about recruitment. |
I’d like to know when the contract will be signed. | Requesting the completion date of a contract. |
Could you inform me about the efficiency of the process? | Requesting specific results about the process efficiency. |
Please advise me on the long-term goals for this project. | Requesting guidance on future goals. |
Deadline-Oriented Examples
This table presents phrases that request updates by a specific deadline.
Alternative Phrase | Context |
---|---|
Please update me by the end of the day. | Requesting an update before the day ends. |
I need an update by Friday. | Requesting an update before the end of the week. |
Can you provide me with an update by tomorrow morning? | Requesting an update by the next morning. |
I would appreciate an update before the meeting. | Requesting an update before a specific meeting. |
Please send me an update by the deadline. | Requesting an update before a specified deadline. |
Update me as soon as possible. | Requesting an immediate update. |
I need to know by [date] if this is feasible. | Requesting a decision by a specific date. |
Please provide an update by [time]. | Requesting an update by a specific time. |
I require an update no later than [date]. | Emphasizing the importance of meeting a deadline. |
Can you get back to me with an update by [day]? | Requesting an update by a specific day of the week. |
Please update me by the end of business. | Requesting an update before the close of business. |
I need an update by next week. | Requesting an update before the end of the next week. |
Can you provide me with an update by the afternoon? | Requesting an update by the afternoon. |
I would appreciate an update before the presentation. | Requesting an update before a specific presentation. |
Please send me an update before the due date. | Requesting an update before a specified due date. |
Update me at your earliest convenience. | Requesting an update as soon as possible. |
I need to know by the end of the month if this is possible. | Requesting a decision by the end of the month. |
Please provide an update by the end of the quarter. | Requesting an update by the end of the quarter. |
I require an update no later than the start of the project. | Emphasizing the importance of meeting the project start. |
Can you get back to me with an update by the launch day? | Requesting an update by the launch day. |
Please update me by the end of the fiscal year. | Requesting an update before the close of the fiscal year. |
I need an update by the summit. | Requesting an update before the summit. |
Can you provide me with an update by the event? | Requesting an update by the event. |
I would appreciate an update before the review. | Requesting an update before a specific review. |
Please send me an update before the deadline. | Requesting an update before a specified deadline. |
Proactive Examples
This table presents phrases that encourage regular updates without being explicitly asked.
Alternative Phrase | Context |
---|---|
Please keep me informed of any progress. | Requesting regular updates on project progress. |
I’d appreciate regular updates on this matter. | Requesting frequent updates on an important issue. |
Please provide updates as things develop. | Requesting updates as events unfold. |
Keep me in the loop with any changes. | Requesting updates on any alterations. |
I’d like to stay informed about the ongoing situation. | Expressing a desire for continuous updates. |
Please keep me abreast of any developments. | Requesting to be kept informed of any changes. |
I would value ongoing updates on this project. | Expressing the importance of regular updates. |
Please share any new information as it becomes available. | Requesting updates as soon as they are known. |
I’d like to remain in the loop regarding this topic. | Expressing a desire to be kept informed. |
Please ensure I am kept up-to-date on this issue. | Requesting to be kept informed on a specific issue. |
Please keep me notified of any progress going forward. | Requesting regular updates on project progress. |
I’d appreciate consistent updates on this matter. | Requesting frequent updates on an important issue. |
Please provide updates as things evolve. | Requesting updates as events unfold. |
Keep me in the loop with any revisions. | Requesting updates on any alterations. |
I’d like to stay enlightened about the ongoing situation. | Expressing a desire for continuous updates. |
Please keep me acquainted of any developments. | Requesting to be kept informed of any changes. |
I would value consistent updates on this project. | Expressing the importance of regular updates. |
Please share any new information as soon as you can. | Requesting updates as soon as they are known. |
I’d like to remain aware regarding this topic. | Expressing a desire to be kept informed. |
Please ensure I am kept aware on this issue. | Requesting to be kept informed on a specific issue. |
Please keep me posted on any progress. | Requesting regular updates on project progress. |
I’d appreciate ongoing status reports on this matter. | Requesting frequent updates on an important issue. |
Please provide updates as things unfold. | Requesting updates as events unfold. |
Keep me in the know with any modifications. | Requesting updates on any alterations. |
I’d like to stay well informed about the situation. | Expressing a desire for continuous updates. |
Usage Rules
When choosing an alternative to “Please keep me updated,” consider the following rules:
- Formality: Match the level of formality to the context. Use formal phrases in professional settings and informal phrases in casual settings.
- Specificity: Be specific about the information you need. This helps the other person understand exactly what you’re looking for.
- Politeness: Always use polite language, even in informal settings. This shows respect for the other person.
- Clarity: Ensure your request is clear and easy to understand. Avoid jargon or ambiguous language.
- Timing: Specify a deadline if you need the information by a certain time. This helps prioritize the request.
Understanding these rules ensures that your request is well-received and effectively communicates your needs.
Common Mistakes
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when requesting updates:
Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
---|---|---|
Update me. | Please update me. | Lacks politeness. |
Keep me updated ASAP. | Please update me as soon as possible. | Avoids overly casual abbreviations in formal contexts. |
Tell me everything. | Please provide details on [specific area]. | Lacks specificity. |
I need the update. | I would appreciate an update. | Lacks politeness. |
Give me info. | Please provide information. | Too informal for professional settings. |
Update me now! | Could you please update me at your earliest convenience? | Avoids demanding language. |
Keep me in the loop, okay? | Please keep me in the loop. | Unnecessary tag questions can sound unprofessional. |
Inform me. | Kindly inform me. | Adding “kindly” increases politeness. |
Let me know stuff. | Please let me know the key details. | “Stuff” is too vague. |
Update me, or else! | I would be grateful for an update by [date]. | Avoids threats and sets a clear deadline. |
Report. | Please provide a report on [topic]. | Too brief and lacks context. |
Keep me updated pronto. | Please update me promptly. | “Pronto” is too informal for many situations. |
Practice Exercises
Exercise 1: Rewriting Sentences
Rewrite the following sentences using alternative phrases for “Please keep me updated.”
Question | Answer |
---|---|
1. Please keep me updated on the project’s progress. | Kindly inform me of the project’s progress. |
2. Please keep me updated about the meeting’s outcome. | Please advise me on the meeting’s outcome. |
3. Please keep me updated on any changes to the schedule. | Please notify me of any changes to the schedule. |
4. Please keep me updated on the status of the application. | Please let me know the status of the application. |
5. Please keep me updated on the investigation’s findings. | Please provide updates on the investigation’s findings. |
6. Please keep me updated on the experiment’s results. | Please inform me of the experiment’s results. |
7. Please keep me updated about the survey responses. | Please advise me on the survey responses. |
8. Please keep me updated on the development of the product. | Please notify me of the development of the product. |
9. Please keep me updated on the negotiations. | Please let me know the status of the negotiations. |
10. Please keep me updated on the fundraising campaign. | Please provide updates on the fundraising campaign. |
Exercise 2: Choosing the Right Phrase
Choose the most appropriate alternative phrase for each context.
Context | Question | Answer |
---|---|---|
Email to your manager about a project. | Which phrase is most appropriate? (a) “Keep me posted.” (b) “Kindly inform me of any developments.” (c) “What’s up?” | (b) “Kindly inform me of any developments.” |
Conversation with a colleague about a task. | Which phrase is most appropriate? (a) “Please advise me.” (b) “Fill me in on the details.” (c) “I request an update.” | (b) “Fill me in on the details.” |
Email to a friend about a personal matter. | Which phrase is most appropriate? (a) “Please provide a status report.” (b) “Keep me in the loop.” (c) “I require an update.” | (b) “Keep me in the loop.” |
Requesting information about budget approval. | Which phrase is most appropriate? (a) “Please let me know the status of the budget approval.” (b) “Update me ASAP.” (c) “Give me the lowdown.” | (a) “Please let me know the status of the budget approval.” |
Requesting an update before the day ends. | Which phrase is most appropriate? (a) “Update me now!” (b) “Please update me by the end of the day.” (c) “Keep me in mind.” | (b) “Please update me by the end of the day.” |
Requesting regular updates on project progress. | Which phrase is most appropriate? (a) “Please keep me informed of any progress.” (b) “What’s new?” (c) “Give me info.” | (a) “Please keep me informed of any progress.” |
Asking a teammate about the results of a game. | Which phrase is most appropriate? (a) “Please provide a detailed summary.” (b) “What’s the score?” (c) “Kindly update me on the specifics.” | (b) “What’s the score?” |
Requesting information about potential obstacles. | Which phrase is most appropriate? (a) “Can you let me know if there are any roadblocks?” (b) “Update me, or else!” (c) “Report.” | (a) “Can you let me know if there are any roadblocks?” |
Email to a supervisor about policy updates. | Which phrase is most appropriate? (a) “Please keep me apprised of any changes.” (b) “Keep me posted.” (c) “What’s the buzz?” | (a) “Please keep me apprised of any changes.” |
Asking a colleague what they have been up to. | Which phrase is most appropriate? (a) “What’s cooking?” (b) “Please brief me on the key developments.” (c) “I require an update no later than tomorrow.” | (a) “What’s cooking?” |
Exercise 3: Sentence Completion
Complete the following sentences with an appropriate alternative phrase.
Question | Answer |
---|---|
1. ______________ on the results of the customer survey. | Please update me |
2. I would appreciate it if you could ______________ on the project timeline. | inform me |
3. ______________ on any changes to the marketing strategy. | Please keep me notified |
4. ______________ by the end of the week. | I need an update |
5. ______________ as soon as you have any news. | Let me know |
6. ______________ of the current situation. | Please keep me abreast |
7. ______________ on the feedback of the new product. | Could you inform me |
8. ______________ of the project’s status. | Please provide a status report |
9. ______________ as things develop. | Please provide updates |
10. ______________ with any modifications. | Keep me in the know |
Advanced Topics
For advanced learners, consider the following:
- Subtlety: Learn to imply the need for updates without explicitly asking. This can be achieved through carefully worded questions or statements of interest.
- Contextual Awareness: Develop a deep understanding of the social and professional contexts in which you communicate. This will allow you to choose the most effective and appropriate phrasing.
- Non-Verbal Cues: Pay attention to non-verbal cues, such as tone of voice and body language, when requesting updates in person. These cues can significantly impact the effectiveness of your communication.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Be aware of cultural differences in communication styles. What is considered polite and appropriate in one culture may not be in another.
Mastering these advanced topics will elevate your communication skills to a higher level.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about requesting updates:
When is it appropriate to use formal language?
Formal language is best suited for professional settings, such as communicating with superiors, clients, or in official reports.
When can I use informal language?
Informal language is suitable for casual conversations with colleagues, friends, or in less formal internal communications.
How specific should I be when requesting updates?
The level of specificity depends on the context. If you need information about a particular aspect, be specific.
If you need a general overview, a broader request is fine.
What if I don’t receive an update after requesting it?
Politely follow up, reiterating your need for the information and the importance of the update.
How can I ensure I receive regular updates?
Establish a clear communication plan with the other person, specifying the frequency and method of updates.
Is it ever inappropriate to ask for updates?
Yes, if the timing is insensitive (e.g., during a crisis) or if you are constantly requesting updates without giving the other person time to gather information.
How do I balance being assertive with being polite?
Use polite language, be clear about your needs, and explain why the update is important. This shows respect while still being assertive.
What are some alternatives to asking for updates in person?
You can send an email, instant message, or schedule a brief meeting to request updates.
How can I make it easier for someone to provide updates?
Provide context, ask specific questions, and offer to help if possible. This makes it easier for the other person to provide the information you need.
What if someone is consistently late with updates?
Address the issue directly but politely, explaining the impact of the delays and working together to find a solution.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of requesting updates involves understanding the nuances of communication and adapting your language to suit different contexts. By expanding your vocabulary and practicing these alternative phrases, you can communicate more effectively, build stronger relationships, and achieve your goals with greater success.
Remember to always be polite, specific, and considerate of the other person’s time and workload. With practice, you’ll become a master of requesting updates, ensuring you stay informed and in control of your projects and tasks.