Why does some writing seem to pop while other writing merely fizzle? Sometimes the difference is between choosing active voice instead of passive voice!

Here are some examples of passive voice (“Object has X done to it by Actor”) sentences:

1. The article was written by me.
2. As I opened the door, dripping could be heard.
3. The candy was purchased by the children.

Those sound a bit awkward! Try to turn passive voice sentences into active voice (“Actor does X to Object”):

1. I wrote the article.
2. As I opened the door, I heard dripping.
3. The children purchased the candy.

If you compare the second list to the first, you’ll find that the second list reads smoother. Look out for the word “was”, it often indicates a passive voice sentence. Also look for the word “by” following the subject of your sentence.

By choosing to use active voice in your writing you can really make it come alive for your readers, so try using it often!

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