Explanations

Using passive voice to organise information

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Introduction

Choosing between active voice and passive voice is one way that an author can control the flow of information in a text.

In explanations of how things are done or made, passive voice is often used, as such texts tend to be about what is done to objects or substances by people or machines. The use of passive voice enables the author to begin the clause with the object or substance being processed (Cement in the example below). Usually the agent is left out in such passive clauses because we are more interested in what happens to the object or substance than in who or what carries out the action:

Cement is made by mixing three parts of broken up limestone and one part of clay with water. (Cement)

In explanations of how a natural phenomenon occurs, active voice tends to be more common. However, passive voice is sometimes used when a there is an implication of a "doer" or "causer":

However, plants also lose water through very small holes in their leaves in a process called transpiration. If transpiration is faster than water is supplied, plants die. (How do plants survive drought?)

In explanations of historical events, passive voice is sometimes used where the text is talking about what happened rather than about what people did:

The opposition was particularly strong in Sichuan. They regarded the plan as a plot to curb their provincial wealth and power. Therefore, "railway protection societies" were formed to organise strikes and mass demonstrations.
(Immediate cause of revolution: The railway issue)

For further information about reasons for using passive voice, see Using passive voice: What is passive voice for?

For further information about using an agent, see Using passive voice: Omitting or including the agent.

	Introduction
	The use of passive voice in Cement
	The use of passive voice in How do plants survive drought?
	The use of passive voice in Immediate cause of revolution: The railway issue