Tutor profile: Darcy A.

What is the difference between active and passive voice in writing?

In writing that uses active voice, the subject of the sentence carries out the action of the sentence. In writing that uses passive voice, the action of the sentence is done to an object, usually by an unnamed subject. Example: Jane purchased two bouquets of Easter flowers. This is active voice: "Jane" carries out the action of purchasing the bouquets. Two bouquets of Easter flowers were purchased. This is passive voice; in this example, the subject carrying out the action of purchasing is not identified; rather, the action is done to the bouquets of flowers.

What are three indicators that a website is a reliable source of information?

A website that is a reliable source of information will demonstrate these qualities, among other indicators: 1. The website is created and maintained by a reputable source, such as a .gov or .org entity; 2. Information on the site is peer-reviewed by professionals in the field; and 3. Information on the site is factual and free of bias.

Choose the version of the following sentence that is grammatically correct: 1. Planning on a large dinner, a light lunch was ordered. 2. We ordered a light lunch, as we were planning on a large dinner.

Version #2 of the sentence is grammatically correct. The first version contains a dangling participle phrase: "planning on a large dinner" does not modify a definite subject. The "light lunch" that was ordered (presumably by the unnamed subject of the sentence) was not planning on a large dinner. In version #2, a correct subject (the pronoun we) is introduced, and the participle phrase modifies that subject.