Question

In the story shady plot why did Helen appear in bits and pieces

Answer 1

Well, this is a very tricky question. There is no mention of any reason as to why Helen, the ghost appeared in sections. Though, Hallock asked her why she materialized in sections, she gave no specific answer. 

The possible explanation to her appearing in sections could be this that it could be the protocol to materialize or vanish. It was Helen's general style of appearing and vanishing; whenever she appeared or vanished, she did it in sections. You can say it was her style. 

 

Note: On some sites the reason of her appearing in pieces is being given to her tiredness. It is wrong; because Helen appeared and disappeared in the story many times; and on all such cases she appeared and vanished in pieces. It was her method of apparating disapparating in pieces. It has nothing to do with her being tired or busy. She said she busy in annoyance and irritation. 

Answer 2

Two reasons are there for Helen to show up in bits and pieces 1. Helen believed that John was excessively occupied in considering a story. To get a handle on his consideration towards her she shows up in bits and pieces. 2. Helen by ideals is really a ghost and perhaps she would have believed that on the off chance that she shows up in bits and pieces he may get dreaded and may stop the use of Ouija board. Henceforth Helen showed up in bits and pieces