To change voice, you may need to find a new subject or a new verb. Here are some useful techniques:

1. Convert an infinitive following the passive verb:

Hierarchy charts are used to ensure good organization.

Hierarchy charts ensure good organization.

2. Convert a noun into an active verb.

Only tapes were used in the storage of data.

Only tapes stored data.

3. Change from an impersonal to a personal style.

New procedures have been instituted to assure quality.

We have instituted new procedures to assure quality.

The company has instituted new procedures to assure quality.

Although active voice is clearest, passive voice is useful when your strategy suggests de-emphasizing the agent of the action.

1. This company is known for its bioengineering innovations.

2. Tomatotech has been relocated to Salinas, California.

3. Many small laboratories are forced to close every year.

4. Over 150,000 chemical formulas were patented last year.

Exercises: Change the sentences that should be changed.

1. Completion of the tests was carried out.
2. It is believed that this contract is faulty and we want it revised.
3. The experiment was improperly run.
4. Masks should be worn at all times during this procedure.
5. It was decided not to do follow-up experiments on the fluid.
6. These subroutines are designed to perform complex functions.
7. The static electricity that is generated by the human body is measurable.
8. No decisions will be made until next week as far as this experiment is concerned.
9. Each component is inspected by an expert before it leaves the plant.
10. Recovery of 22 percent of the lost data was accomplished by using back-up tapes from storage.