Tenses: Sequence and Consistency in Writing

Sequence of tenses means keeping your verb forms consistent so the reader can follow the timeline. Sudden, unexplained tense shifts are a common reason texts feel disorganised. Reported (indirect) speech When you report what someone said in the past, verbs usually shift one step back ("backshift"): "I am tired" → He…

Faglig kvalitetssikret av lærere og toppstudenter · Følger læreplanen (LK20) · Sist oppdatert 2026-09-18

Sequence of tenses means keeping your verb forms consistent so the reader can follow the timeline. Sudden, unexplained tense shifts are a common reason texts feel disorganised.

Reported (indirect) speech

When you report what someone said in the past, verbs usually shift one step back ("backshift"):

  • "I am tired" → He said he was tired.
  • "I will come" → She said she would come.
  • "I have finished" → He said he had finished.

…

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