Avoiding Shifts in Verb Tense

The present is all we have. The past exists only because we remember it, and the future only because we plan for it.

When you write, verb tenses help you keep past, present, and future sorted out.

Five years ago, I imagined I would be a superhero by now.

Now you see a plain old sixth grader in front of you.

Tonight, though, I will transform into Goal Girl!

Choose the right tense—past, present, or future—and stay in it unless you have a good reason to change. Avoid accidental tense shifts.