Should a novel use present or past tense?

Well, both can work. Present tense can add a sense of urgency, but past tense often gives a more straightforward narrative flow. It really comes down to the style and effect you want to create.

Yes, it can. Using'says' in a present tense novel can make the dialogue feel immediate and realistic.

It depends on the tone and style you want to create. Present tense can make the story feel more immediate and immersive, while past tense is often used for a more traditional narrative.

It really varies. Some genres might lend themselves better to one tense over the other. For example, thrillers might work well in present tense to heighten the tension. But historical fiction might be more suitable in past tense. It's all about what suits your story and your writing style.

Sure, you can. Many novels successfully combine present and past tense to add variety and depth to the storytelling.

Yes, you have the flexibility to do that. The key is to use the tenses appropriately and consistently within a specific context to make the narrative coherent and engaging for the readers.

Well, in fiction, present tense can make the story seem more urgent. Imagine a story starting with 'I open the box and there's a strange noise.' It's immediate. Past tense is more common in traditional stories, like 'I opened the box and there was a strange noise.' Present tense is great for creating a sense of intimacy between the reader and the story, as if the reader is experiencing it at the same time as the character. Past tense, though, is good for when you want to tell a story that has a sense of having already been completed, and you can give more background and context as it's being told from a later perspective.

It depends on the story and the effect you want to create. Sometimes past tense gives a more traditional and immersive feel. But present tense can make the action feel immediate and engaging.

Well, it's not a one-size-fits-all. Present tense can make the story feel more immersive and in the moment, but past tense often provides a clear narrative flow. It really comes down to the author's choice and what works best for the story they want to tell.

It depends on the genre and the style you want to convey. Some genres, like thrillers, might work better in the past tense for building suspense. But for a more immediate and immersive experience, the present tense could be a good choice.