Writing in the present tense can be a challenge for many authors. Many writers struggle with the immediacy and freshness that this style demands. How do you convey action as it happens without slipping into past or future tenses?
The solution lies in understanding the rules and nuances of present-tense writing. In this article, learn how to write effectively in the present tense through actionable tips, examples, and best practices.
Table of Contents
The Basics of Present Tense
Before diving into the intricacies, let’s clarify what the present tense means. The present tense describes actions happening now. It can encapsulate habitual actions, ongoing events, or universal truths. Here’s a brief run-through of present tense forms:
1. Simple Present: Describes habitual actions.
- Example: “She walks to the store.”
2. Present Continuous (Progressive): Describes ongoing actions.
- Example: “She is walking to the store.”
3. Present Perfect: Indicates an action that occurred at an unspecified time in the past but is relevant to the present.
- Example: “She has walked to the store.”
4. Present Perfect Continuous: Highlights actions that started in the past and continue to the present.
- Example: “She has been walking to the store.”
A Step-by-Step Guide to Writing in Present Tense
To achieve present-tense mastery, follow these steps:
1. Identify Your Purpose:
- Why are you writing in the present tense? If your goal is to create immediacy and engagement, the present tense is ideal.
2. Choose the Appropriate Present Form:
- Depending on what you want to express, choose between simple, continuous, perfect, or perfect continuous.
3. Consistent Voice:
- Maintain a consistent tense throughout your piece unless there’s a valid reason to shift. This keeps the reader grounded.
4. Use Action Verbs:
- Action verbs add urgency and clarity. Replace weaker verbs with more dynamic ones.
- Example: Instead of “She has a small dog,” try “She owns a small dog that barks loudly.”
5. Include Sensory Details:
- Engage your reader’s senses. Describe what characters see, hear, and feel in the moment.
- Example: “The coffee brews slowly, filling the air with its rich aroma.”
6. Engage with Dialogue:
- Use dialogue in the present tense to create immediacy in interactions.
- Example: “He says, ‘Let’s go to the park.'”
7. Practice Regularly:
- Dedicate time each day to practice writing in the present tense. Write short stories or journal entries focusing solely on this tense.
Pros and Cons of Writing in Present Tense
Pros
- Immediacy and Engagement: Present tense can make your writing feel more urgent and engaging. Readers often feel as if they are living the story alongside the characters.
- Flexibility in Narrative Style: You can dip into characters’ thoughts or feelings more fluidly, allowing a closer connection to their experiences.
Cons
- Limited Scope for Backstory: Present tense may limit how much backstory you can provide. The reader may need more context to understand character motivations.
- Potential for Confusion: If not handled carefully, the present tense can confuse readers who expect a chronological storytelling structure.
Best Practices for Present Tense Writing
1. Read Examples:
- Examine works written in the present tense. Books like “The Hunger Games” written by Suzanne Collins, or John Green’s “The Fault in Our Stars” effectively employ the present tense.
2. Avoid Overusing Continuous Forms:
- While present continuous tense adds a sense of action, overuse can make writing feel sluggish. Mix in simple presents for variety and punch.
3. Stay True to Character Voice:
- Each character may have a unique way of speaking. Their dialogue and thoughts should reflect this while remaining in the present tense.
4. Focus on Real-Time Reflection:
- Characters can reflect on their thoughts or surroundings in real time, which can add depth without straying into the past tense.
Common Pitfalls While Writing in Present Tense
1. Inconsistent Tense Usage:
- Shifting between present and past tense can disorient readers. Keep a consistent approach throughout your piece.
2. Neglecting Action Verbs:
- Using vague or weak verbs can dull the impact. Instead of “The door is open,” say “The door stands ajar.”
3. Forgetting Characterization:
- Characters may need depth beyond their actions at the moment. Use present tense to expand on motivations and backgrounds without reverting to past tense.
4. Overly Complex Sentences:
- Sometimes, writers think more complex equals better. Simple sentences can be more effective in the present tense, helping maintain a quick pace.
Real-World Applications of Present Tense Writing
Consider a scenario where you’re narrating a day in the life of a character. Using the present tense brings their experiences alive. Imagine if you were writing about Maya, a high school student who’s navigating class and friendships.
Instead of saying, “Maya walked into math class,” you would write, “Maya enters math class, her heart racing as she scans the room for familiar faces.” This approach grounds the reader in Maya’s experience, drawing them into her moment-to-moment thoughts and feelings.
Here’s another example. In presenting a cooking scene, you might write: “The oven hums while Sarah chops vegetables. She sprinkles salt into the bubbling pot and lowers the heat, watching as the sauce thickens.” This style maintains tension and immediacy, encouraging the reader to visualize each step.
Actionable Tips When Stuck in Past Tense
If you often find yourself slipping into the past tense, these tips can help pull you back into the present:
1. Visual Reminders:
- Place sticky notes around your workspace that read, “Write in the present!” This can serve as a helpful prompt.
2. Write First Drafts Freely:
- Allow your first draft to flow naturally, then review it for tense consistency during the revision process.
3. Set a Time Limit:
- Challenge yourself to write a short piece purely in the present tense within a set timeframe. This exercise can sharpen your focus and fluency.
4. Read Aloud:
- Hearing your writing can reveal tense issues. It can also help to listen to the rhythm of the present tense, aiding in its proper implementation.
5. Practice with Prompts:
- Use writing prompts focused on present-tense scenarios. This can stimulate creativity while forcing you to think in the here and now.
Employing the present tense in your writing can create an immersive experience for readers, making them feel they are at the heart of the action. With consistent practice and awareness of common pitfalls, you can effortlessly craft engaging narratives that play out in real-time. Now, proceed to unleash your creativity with the power of the present tense!
Writing in Present Tense: Troubleshooting Common Issues
When writing in the present tense, clarity is key. Here are common issues and their solutions.
- Confusing Verb Forms
Writers often mix up verb forms, which can lead to a shift in tense. For example, instead of writing, “She likes to read and enjoyed every moment,” use, “She likes to read and enjoys every moment.” Review your sentences to ensure all verbs align with the present tense. Pay attention to auxiliary verbs like “is” and “are” as they help form the continuous aspect. - Overly Complex Sentences
Sometimes, writers try to cram too much into one sentence, resulting in a tense mess. For instance, instead of, “He walks to the store and will buy milk,” change it to, “He walks to the store and buys milk.” Simple, straightforward sentences keep the focus on the present action and avoid confusion. - Incorrect Time Indicators
Time indicators must match the tense. If you write, “Tomorrow, I go to the meeting,” that’s good! But saying, “Yesterday, I go to the meeting,” doesn’t work. Instead, stick to the present tense with time indicators that match, like, “Today, I go to the meeting” or “Now, I start the meeting.” - Inconsistent Subject-Verb Agreement
Ensure your subjects and verbs align in number and tense. A common error appears in sentences like, “The team are winning the game.” The correct version is, “The team is winning the game.” Always check that your subjects (singular or plural) correctly match their verbs. - Shifting Perspectives
Switching between first person, second person, or third person can confuse readers. A sentence such as, “You walk the dog, and then she gives it a treat” can become unclear. Stick to one perspective, like, “I walk the dog, and then I give it a treat,” to maintain consistency. - Incorporating Dialogue
When using dialogue, keep it in the present tense for authenticity. For instance, “She says, ‘I feel great today,'” works better than “She said, ‘I felt great today.'” Ensure that dialogue reflects the immediacy of the present experience while keeping the surrounding narrative in sync. - Using Passive Voice
Passive voice can bog down present-tense writing. Instead of saying, “The book is read by him,” use active voice: “He reads the book.” This keeps the writing dynamic and aligns with the present tense effectively.
By addressing these common issues, you maintain a clear and engaging narrative in the present tense that resonates with readers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Related to How To Write In Present Tense
Q. What is present tense in writing?
A. Present tense describes actions happening now or habitual actions. It often uses verbs like “run,” “jump,” or “think.”
Q. How do I identify present tense verbs?
A. Present tense verbs typically end in “s” for third-person singular (he runs, she jumps) and have the base form for other subjects (I run, we jump).
Q. Can I use present tense for storytelling?
A. Yes! Present tense can make stories feel immediate and engaging, pulling readers into the action as it unfolds.
Q. Is present tense appropriate for academic writing?
A. Yes, many academic papers use present tense when discussing theories, findings, or facts, as they are always true.
Q. What are the common types of present tense?
A. The three main types are simple present (I eat), present continuous (I am eating), and present perfect (I have eaten).
Q. How do I switch my writing from past tense to present tense?
A. Change the verbs to present tense and ensure that the context remains relevant to the current action or state of being.
Q. Are there any genres that prefer the present tense?
A. Young adult fiction, thrillers, and some literary fiction often utilize the present tense to create urgency and connection.
Q. Can I mix the present tense with other tenses in my writing?
A. Yes, but do so carefully. Ensure the shifts are clear and serve a purpose, such as incorporating flashbacks in the past tense.
Q. What are the benefits of writing in the present tense?
A. Writing in the present tense can create a sense of immediacy, draw readers in, and make characters’ experiences feel more relatable.
Q. How can I practice writing in the present tense?
A. Start by journaling your daily activities in the present tense or rewriting scenes from your favorite books in the present tense to get more comfortable.
Conclusion
Writing in the present tense can add a dynamic feel to your storytelling. It keeps readers engaged and makes your narrative feel immediate. Remember to maintain consistency, focus on an active voice, and immerse your audience in the moment. Practicing these techniques will make your writing more vivid and relatable. Now, go ahead and bring your stories to life in the here and now!
