What does 'active voice' in technical writing signify?

Active voice in technical writing signifies a writing style where the subject performs the action. This is important because it makes sentences clearer and more direct, enhancing readability and understanding. For instance, in a sentence such as "The engineer designed the system," the focus is on the engineer (the subject) executing the action (designing), which makes the communication straightforward.

Using active voice helps to engage readers by creating a sense of immediacy and responsibility. It ensures that the audience can easily identify who is doing what, which is particularly beneficial in technical writing where clarity and precision are paramount. This style also typically leads to more concise sentences, eliminating unnecessary words that can muddle the intended meaning. In professional and technical communication, conveying information efficiently is critical, which is why active voice is preferred.