Writing for the Web:
Guidelines for MIT LibrariesUse active voice
Think in short stories (scenarios).
- Write in terms of "who does what to whom."
- Use active voice, personal pronouns, action verbs.
When users "think aloud" through a paragraph in typical academic style, they translate the passive, noun-based writing into scenarios.
No: Yes: An acknowledgement of the order will be issued via an e-mail message when payment is made by credit card. If you pay by credit card, we'll send you an e-mail acknowledging your order. Write what you would say to them if you were talking on the phone.
Example: How do I borrow books?