Verbs and verb forms

A sentence can do without almost anything, but no expression is a complete sentence without a verb.

In technical writing, present tense is easier to read than past or future tense. Simple verbs are easier to read and understand than complex verbs, such as verbs in the progressive or perfect tense. One-word verbs, such as remove, are easier for non-native English speakers than verb phrases, such as take away.

Don’t vary voice and mood for the sake of variety. Active voice, which is generally clearer than passive voice, should predominate. Indicative mood should predominate, except in procedures, where imperative mood should predominate.

Put the action of the sentence in the verb, not in the nouns. Do not bury the action in an ...

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