The voice of a verb tells if the subject of a sentence does or receives action.
When the subject is the doer of action, the verb is in the active voice.
        Example: As we crossed the bridge, we felt a tremor.
When the subject is the receiver of action, the verb is in the passive voice.
        Example: A tremor was felt as we crossed the bridge.

 

Write in the active voice to give a clearer, more concise message, unless:

1. You don’t know who or what the subject is.
        Example: Several errors have been made in the report.
2. It is more important to highlight the action than the doer of the action.
        Example: Gold was discovered in the Yukon in 1897.
3. You want to tactfully avoid identifying the doer of the action.
        Example: Coffee breaks are being taken beyond the time allowed.