Active vs. passive voice
Choosing clarity in academic writing
Active voice and passive voice are two ways to structure a sentence with different implications for emphasis and clarity. In academic writing, active voice is preferred for its directness and focus on the doer of the action.
Active Voice:
Subject performs the action: “The researchers conducted the experiment.”
Emphasis on the subject: “We argue that the findings support the hypothesis.”
Conciseness: Often shorter than passive voice sentences.
Passive Voice:
Action is performed on the subject: “The experiment was conducted by the researchers.”
Emphasis on the action or object: “The hypothesis was supported by the findings.”
Wordiness: Often longer than active voice sentences.
Why Active Voice is Preferred in Academic Writing:
Clarity: Active voice sentences are typically clearer and easier to understand, as the subject and its action are readily identified.
Directness: Active voice makes your writing sound more assertive and engaging, conveying authority and ownership of your ideas.
Conciseness: Active voice sentences are often shorter and more to the point, improving the flow and readability of your text.
Focus on agency: Academic writing emphasizes critical thinking and analysis. Active voice helps highlight the actors and agents involved in research and discussions.
Exceptions to the Rule:
While active voice is generally preferred, there are some instances where passive voice might be appropriate:
Emphasis on the action or object: When the focus is on the action itself rather than the doer, passive voice can be effective. For example, “The data was analyzed using statistical software.”
When the subject is unknown or unimportant: If the subject is unclear or irrelevant, passive voice can be a suitable option. For example, “The study was approved by the ethics committee.”
Variety: To avoid monotony, it is okay to occasionally use passive voice for stylistic variation. However, ensure it does not obscure meaning or weaken the overall impact of your writing.
Remember: The choice between active and passive voice depends on the context and your intentions. When in doubt, opt for an active voice for clarity, directness, and a more effective delivery of your academic ideas.
Bonus Tip: Use powerful verbs and strong sentence structures to further enhance the impact of your active voice writing.