What is the best tense for fiction?

It depends on the style and tone you want for your fiction. If you aim for a classic, timeless feel, past tense might be your choice. But if you want to draw the reader right into the action as it unfolds, present tense could be the way to go.

The present tense often works well as it makes the story feel immediate and engaging to the readers.

Yes. It could be used to create a sense of timelessness or to draw attention to specific moments. However, it needs to be used sparingly and with a clear purpose to avoid disrupting the overall past tense narrative.

It depends. Both present and past tenses can be used in fiction. Some genres or styles might favor one over the other.

The present tense has the advantage of making the story feel very current and fresh. When a writer uses it, such as 'She jumps on the stage and starts to sing', it gives the impression that this could be happening right now. It can also be used to break away from the more common past - tense narrative style. In addition, it can be used to create a more immersive experience for the reader. The reader is more likely to feel like they are part of the action rather than just hearing about something that has already happened in the past. Whereas past tense, while reliable and traditional, doesn't always have that same 'in - the - moment' allure.

When the past tense is the main tense in fiction, it gives a feeling of a story being told, like an old - fashioned yarn. It allows the writer to set a certain mood, perhaps a bit more nostalgic or reflective. The reader can relax and let the story unfold as if they are listening to someone recall past events.

It depends on the style and genre of the novel. For most fictional stories, the past tense works well as it gives a sense of storytelling and reflection.

It really depends on the genre and style of the novel. For a more traditional narrative, past tense is commonly used. But for a more modern, fast-paced story, present tense can add a sense of urgency. So, there's no one-size-fits-all answer.

The present tense can be quite effective for an erotic novel. It gives a sense of immediacy and makes the actions and emotions feel current and intense, as if they are happening right in front of the reader's eyes.

It can vary. Usually, the past tense or present tense works well for fiction. The past tense creates a storytelling feel, while the present tense makes the events more immediate.