Is it neccesary to write all the verbs in past tense when writing a book report ?

Question

My teacher demands that all book reports be written in past tense. But it makes some sentences sound ridiculous.
Is writing them in past tense the proper form of doing a book report ?

Answer 1

It depends on the teacher. Some professors require present tense active, others require past tense active. At the college level, the tense isn't important as long as it is consistent (i.e. not switching back and forth between past and present tense.) Literary criticism is usually written in the present tense because it is easier to discuss a book in terms of "does, goes, says" than in "did, went, said," etc. But, like I said, it's up to the teacher. If he/she requires past tense, then for the sake of the grade-stick with past tense.

Good Luck.

Answer 2

While the author of any book wrote the words in the past, it is also true that the words in the book exist in the present.

That way you can write "The author wrote xxx and by this meant...." or, "The book describes actions of...."

Note that one is in past tense, the other in present. Both are correct.

BTW, it might help if you wrote which country you live in. Different languages have different grammars. this even applies to English English versus American English.

Answer 3

Book reports should be written in present tense. Books and stories cannot die so you should talk about them in present tense. I realize you can't do this since your teacher told you to write in past tense, but you might ask her about it since she is clearly wrong. I hate stupid teachers.

Answer 4

Technically, books should be written about in the present tense....

...but it's your teacher who gives you points, so unfortunately you should do what he/she says.

Good luck.

Answer 5

its not about whats right.its about what your teacher wants.do it his way and you will get a better mark.good luck...........FREDDY..............