How to Write Novels in the Present Tense

Choosing a tense to write in is another part of the novel-planning process.

Writing a novel can be difficult, as it takes a lot of planning and execution. Besides the idea of the novel, there is the editing and the writing. Choosing a tense can also be a part of the overall planning of the novel. Decide if there will be a mix of tenses, or if you want to stick with one tense. Writing in one tense could cause some challenges especially if the plot has different time frames. However difficult, it may be it can be done, because writing in the present tense is writing as though events are happening right now.

Instructions

How to Write a Novel in Present Tense

1. Decide if present tense is the right tense for the plot of your novel. Not all ideas can be executed in a specific tense. Ask yourself if there will be a lot of flashbacks and flash-forwards, and whether present tense will effectively tell your story.

2. Write the first couple of chapters in present tense. Edit those chapters, make sure that all of the tenses you used match.

3. Continue to write and edit after every couple of chapters.

4. Edit the manuscript. Any changes that need to be made in order to make all tenses match to present should be done during this stage.

5. Hire another editor. Use as many editors as you need in order to have different sets of eyes catch any mistakes as well as suggest ways to make the present tense fit.

Tips & Warnings

• Having another person edit your manuscript will help you in making the proper adjustments in present tense to your novel-to-be.

• Remember, it is easy to switch tenses, keep in mind that the present tense is used as if events are happening right now. If your verbs generally end in "-ing," you are writing in present tense.

References

• Present Tense Books