How To: Improve Your Writing with Active Language

 

One of the most important pieces of scientific communication is establishing yourself as a reliable source. Specifically, when we are trying to make an impression, we want to come off as professional and confident (without overselling our results). 

 

Often times, our academic writing is a reflection of our self perception. When we don't have confidence in ourselves, feel like an imposter, or haven't yet developed a sense of ownership over our work, we often subtly reflect these feelings in our writing. These sentiments are then absorbed by our reader. But... if you're here, I assure you that you deserve to feel confident, you are not an imposter, and you have made an impact through your work. Now, let's make sure all of that comes through in your writing. 

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Finding Confidence

Below, I have included two versions of the same statement. Which version strengthens your perception of the writer? 

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Version 1:

Detections that pass the 5 sigma threshold were used. ​​

 

Version 2:

We used detections that pass the 5 sigma threshold. 

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Now let's try a more glaring example. Which version reflects a confident writer? 

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Version 1:

This work was recognized with an Outstanding Undergraduate Research award. 

 

Version 2:

I was recognized for this work with an Outstanding Undergraduate Research award. 

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In both cases, Version 2 gave the perception of a stronger, more confident writer. But why?...

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Passive vs. Active Language

The examples above highlight the difference between Passive and Active language. Passive language focuses on the action happening while Active language focuses on the subject (you) performing the action. 

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Sentences using Passive language are structured in the following way, where sometimes the subject is explicitly stated and other times the subject is implied. 

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object + action ( + subject ) 

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So for our first example, we have:

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detections + were used ( + by us )

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Sentences using Active language are structured in the following way.

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subject + action + object 

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For our first example, we have:

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We + used + detections 

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Takeaways

Active language puts the focus on you and what you have accomplished, while Passive language leaves you out of the equation. Without noticing it, your passive writing may have been underselling your work. Switching to active language helps you come off as professional, confident, and strong! Whether you're writing a paper, poster, or personal statement, the simple switch from active to passive language will give you that extra sparkle.