Write your story in one tense only, even if you're switching POV or having a flashback(try and avoid flashbacks).
Past= writing as though everything has already happened and you're re-telling.
Past simple- 'We LEFT home on Wednesday.'
Past progressive- 'She WAS BECOMING a monster.'
Past perfect- 'It HAD BEEN the worst day she HAD BEEN able to remember.'
Past perfect progressive- 'She HAD BEEN LOOKING for him for decades.'
Present= As though your character is describing present events.
'She kicks the snake and it flies through the air, wriggling.'
Future(rarely used constantly but can be used in character soliloquoy or thoughts)= Describing occurances as though they are going to happen.
'He is going to run to the top of that mountain and strive for air despite the pain that will permeate his lungs.'
Remember that every word you use will be modified by the tense you choose.
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For The Forgetful- The Complete Writer's Guide
Non-FictionIf you're struggling with punctuation, dialogue, spelling or grammar, have a read of this simple guide to the components of writing, copyright, and publishing. [UNEDITED VERSION- Full, edited version to be released soon!]
