Tense

Tense is something most writers don't even think about when they begin their rough draft. Tense is also something readers don't dwell on while reading your work. If it's such an invisible entity, why should we pay attention to it?

Because, when tense goes wrong - we all notice. Like a thick rope holding that "angel" in the sky of the school play, an improper tense is a distraction from the story.

First, let's go over our options.

Past tense: Past tense is where the story takes place "before now" or "in the past". Just as its name indicates, the writer writes as if the events of their world have already happened. Now, this may seem to be counterproductive to you. You want your readers to feel engaged with the story - like it's happening to them right now. However, past tense can still present this effect to readers if the writing is engaging and, well, good. Plenty (in fact, most) books are written in past tense. Harry Potter, The Great Gatsby, The Hobbit.

Past Tense Example: "He sat on the canary."

Present tense: Present tense is where the story takes place "now" or "in the present". In this tense, the writer writes as if the events of the story world are happening right as the story is being told. If past tense doesn't appeal to you, present tense is another viable option. However, the majority of books are written in past tense (and I think you now agree, not to their detriment) because present tense can seem abrasive to the reader. If absolutely EVERYTHING is happening RIGHT NOW, it can get exhausting, just as running a marathon in real time would be. Just because this is true, it does not mean you can't write in present tense. It always, always comes down to good writing. Time Traveler's Wife, Fight Club, and The Hunger Games are all written in present tense.

Present Tense Example: "He sits on the canary."

Now, no matter which tense you choose (future tense also exists, though is used very rarely) the most important thing is to stay consistent. If you choose past tense and tell readers that Randy sat, walked, or danced, do not slip in a sentence where Randy skips or eats. Always remember the tense in which you are writing and stick with it. Say Randy skipped or ate instead.

If you execute this consistently and accurately, you'll achieve the desired effect of having your readers engaged in the story and not distracted by the giant rope from the ceiling. Keep the writing good and the story will seem believable.