Present tense

Definition

Present tense is a grammatical form that expresses actions or states happening currently or generally, as opposed to past or future events. It is often used in newswriting to convey immediacy and relevance, making the information feel fresh and engaging for the reader.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Using present tense in newswriting makes stories feel more immediate and relevant, which can help capture the audience's attention.
2. Present tense is often used in leads to convey urgency and importance of the story being told.
3. In long-form and explanatory journalism, present tense can create a sense of engagement, drawing readers into the narrative.
4. News articles typically maintain present tense when discussing ongoing events, while past tense may be used for background information.
5. Mastering the use of present tense allows writers to craft compelling narratives that resonate with readers and convey timely information.

Review Questions

• How does using present tense impact the way readers perceive news articles?
  • Using present tense in news articles helps to create a sense of immediacy and relevance, making the story feel more engaging for readers. It allows them to feel as if they are experiencing events as they unfold. This perception can enhance the emotional connection with the content, prompting readers to care more about the information presented.
• Discuss how present tense can be effectively utilized in long-form journalism to maintain reader interest.
  • In long-form journalism, employing present tense can help maintain reader interest by creating a vivid and immersive experience. By framing current actions or events in present tense, writers can make readers feel like they are part of the unfolding narrative. This technique invites readers into the story and encourages them to engage with the material on a deeper level.
• Evaluate the potential drawbacks of relying solely on present tense in newswriting and how it affects storytelling.
  • While present tense can enhance immediacy and engagement, relying solely on it may limit a writer's ability to provide necessary context or background information. Past events often require past tense for clarity. Overusing present tense could also lead to confusion about timelines within a story. Thus, effective storytelling balances both tenses to ensure that readers understand both ongoing events and their historical context.

Related terms

Active Voice:

A sentence structure where the subject performs the action of the verb, creating a more direct and vigorous expression.

Inverted Pyramid:

A writing style in journalism where the most important information is presented first, followed by supporting details, often using present tense for urgency.

Lead: The opening sentence or paragraph of a news article that summarizes the main point, often crafted in present tense to draw readers in.