Asked by: Jana Yamamoto

What is the effect of switching tenses?

Most writers, it seems, prefer one tense over another. Many of us use the past tense as our default, as it allows for foreshadowing, and, conversely, it allows reflection from the present “telling” moment. We’re telling a story of which we know the narrative arc and, therefore, it happened in the past.

What difficulties do you often encounter when it comes to simple tenses of the verb?

Problem. Incorrect verb tense can cause confusion—readers may not understand when events happened. Inconsistent verb tense (i.e., arbitrary shifts between past and present) can be particularly irritating to the reader, and readers may conclude that you failed to proofread your paper.

Is it okay to switch tenses?

Writers should be careful to use the exact tense needed to describe, narrate, or explain. Do not switch from one tense to another unless the timing of an action demands that you do. Keep verb tense consistent in sentences, paragraphs, and essays.

Can you switch between tenses in a story?

You can switch tenses between sections or chapters

Writers often change tenses as part of a predictable pattern, for example, alternating one section at a time between present and past tense narration.

Is it OK to change tenses in an essay?

Generally, writers maintain one tense for the main discourse and indicate changes in time frame by changing tense relative to that primary tense, which is usually either simple past or simple present. Even apparently non-narrative writing should employ verb tenses consistently and clearly.