All research scientists know that writing in the passive…
“All research scientists know that writing in the passive voice is artificial; they are not disembodied observers, but people doing research.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Scientists writing in passive voice can seem detached; using active voice humanizes research and acknowledges the researchers.
In simple terms: Active voice humanizes scientific writing.
Write actively to show who does the work.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- academic papers
- public outreach
- team meetings
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does voice affect credibility?
- When is passive voice appropriate?
May not suit all disciplinary conventions.