ATI TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) Version 7English and Language UsageHard
A researcher is drafting the methodology section of a scientific paper. The sentence reads: 'The samples were collected, prepared, and analyzed by the research team.' To improve the flow and academic tone, which revision would be most appropriate?
- AThe research team collected, prepared, and analyzed the samples.
- BThe samples underwent collection, preparation, and analysis by the research team.
- CIt was the research team who collected, prepared, and analyzed the samples.
- DCollection, preparation, and analysis of the samples were done by the research team.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. The research team collected, prepared, and analyzed the samples.
Option A changes the sentence from passive voice ('The samples were collected...') to active voice ('The research team collected...'). Active voice is generally preferred in scientific writing for clarity, directness, and conciseness, clearly stating who performed the action.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. This option also uses nominalization ('underwent collection, preparation, and analysis') and is wordier than option A.
- C. This option uses a 'It was...who' construction, which is often wordy and less direct than a simple active voice sentence.
- D. This option uses nominalization ('collection, preparation, analysis') and passive construction ('were done by'), making it less concise and direct than option A.
Active vs. Passive Voice
Active voice: the subject performs the action (e.g., 'The nurse administered the medication'). Passive voice: the subject receives the action (e.g., 'The medication was administered by the nurse').
- Active voice is generally more direct, clear, and concise.
- Passive voice can be useful when the actor is unknown, unimportant, or when emphasizing the action's recipient.
- Many academic and scientific guidelines recommend active voice for clarity.
Memory trick: Active speaks, Passive is spoken to.