In using the three-step format to write your results section, you should observe the following verb tense conventions. In Element 1, use the present tense to locate your data in a figure.
Notice in the examples in the box above that locational statements can be" written in either the active or passive voice, but in both cases the present tense is used.
When you report your findings (Element 2), use the past tense.
NOTE: In some fields such as engineering and economics, authors may present their findings in the present tense.
When commenting on the findings (Element 3), it is conventional to use the present tense or modal auxiliaries.
In your Element 3 comments you may also use tentative verbs in the present tense instead of modal auxiliaries to generalize from results.