Are you writing a book? Thinking about writing a book? Know someone who wants to write a book? Well if so share this page with them because this is going to save them an edit or two; trust me.

Have you noticed that most books are written in past tense? Well they are and that’s because it’s easier to write in past tense than present tense. Imagine telling a friend about your day, that’s what writing a book in past tense would be. As a writer, it’s completely up to you which tense you use. I suggest using the one that’s more natural and easier for you. I’m currently writing a book and it’s in past tense. Remember, no matter which tense you choose, you stick with it throughout the book. You can’t go back and forth, it will confuse readers. If the book is hard to read it will be put down to collect dust. I’ve researched a few books for examples of books using past and present tense. These are the first lines in each book; author and book listed too.

 

Here are first liners from books written in past tense:

“I shouldn’t have been surprised when I met my husband’s lover, but I was.” (Author: Eric Jermoe Dickey/ Book: The Other Woman)

“For as long as I could remember, I had always been nervous.” Author: Zane/ Book: Nervous)

“Erica Payne was born the younger sister of two children.” (Author: Michele A. Fletcher/ Book: Charge It To The Game)

Here are first liners books written in present tense:

“I am grateful to Capt. John Wells of the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Department for all of his generous technical advice.” (Author: Andre Dubus III / Book: House Of Sand And Fog)