How does using "active voice" generally affect clarity in writing?

Using active voice generally enhances clarity in writing by making the subject and action more direct and prominent in a sentence. In active voice constructions, the subject performs the action, which allows readers to easily understand who is doing what. This straightforward relationship between the subject and verb typically results in more engaging and easier-to-follow prose.

For instance, a sentence in active voice such as "The cat chased the mouse" clearly conveys the action, leaving little room for misunderstanding. In contrast, passive voice might obscure who is responsible for the action, as in "The mouse was chased by the cat," making it less immediate and potentially confusing for the reader. This clarity is crucial, especially in academic and professional writing, where precision is key to effective communication.