Example 2#: “After turning it on, the USB cords can be moved near the computer.”

To fix it, bring the action to the front. State what happened first, including additional details later.

Example 2# (fixed): “After turning it on, move the USB cords near the computer.”

Now that you understand the basics of eliminating passive writing, let’s apply this to a sample paragraph. Let’s say the topic is about accessing Windows Ozark’s Uninstall a Program feature*.

How to Access Windows Ozark’s Uninstall a Program Feature
Step 1: To begin, you should click on the the “Start” button, which can be found in the lower left corner of the desktop. Double click on “Control Panel” so that the Control Panel screen pops up. The cursor should be placed on the link “Uninstall a Program” to launch the Uninstall a Program feature.

Now what’s wrong with this paragraph?

A) There are no actionable sentences.
B) There are too many passive phrases/words.
C) There are too many passive phrases/words but the sentences are actionable.
D) A and B.
E) B and C.

Click Here for the Answer>>>

* Obviously this isn’t a real operating system; you’ll never find this title on DS.