Academic English #7: make sure = to ensure

Make sure means “to do something 반드시” or “to ensure that something is done.” It is very often used in presentations and academic contexts to emphasize precautions or to give clear instructions to others.

This expression is also useful when emphasizing an important point to the audience, and it is effective when requesting confirmation before moving on to the next step in a presentation.

Below are 10 example sentences that can be used naturally in conferences or academic presentations.

10 example sentences

I make sure of it.

I’m sure. / I’ll guarantee it. / It’s certain.

• Please be sure to update the references with the most recent publications. Make sure to update the references with the most recent publications.

• Make sure all graphs are presented with the same units.

• Make sure to leave enough time for questions from the audience.

• Make sure all equipment is functioning properly beforehand.

• Make sure the terminology on the slides is accessible to a general audience.

• Make sure you have strictly followed the ethical guidelines of the study.

• Make sure the reference format aligns with the conference guidelines.

• Make sure to highlight key findings visually.

• Make sure not to overinterpret the data.

• Make sure all co-authors have approved the final version.