Most writers have felt the terror that comes from staring at a blank page or computer screen. It’s the feeling that you will never again write an effective sentence or paragraph. While there are many causes for writer’s block from not being able to choose a good topic to a general fear of failure, the cure is usually the same: Keep writing. The following tips will help put more words on the page and move you toward an effective, well-written paper.
Make Sure You Understand the Assignment
Sometimes that feeling of panic is actually a feeling of confusion. Check with your teacher to make sure you know exactly what is expected in this writing assignment. How long should the paper be? What is the purpose of the assignment? Do you need to use outside sources? Is there a grading rubric you can follow? Having a full understanding of the project is the first step toward writing effectively.
Give Yourself Time to Write
Avoid that ache in the pit of your stomach that comes from working on a tight deadline. Map out chunks of time over the next few days or weeks to do nothing but work on this writing project. You will find the words flow much easier when you’re not thinking about your due date. Don’t procrastinate.
Relax Your Body and Mind Before You Write
Each time you sit down to write, take a moment to close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. Relax your neck and shoulders. Clear your mind of all thoughts. This quick meditation session will help you focus your thoughts and put an end to your writer’s block.
Brainstorm New Writing Ideas
Whether you are just beginning to write your paper or you’ve gotten stuck somewhere in the middle, take out a new piece of paper and just start listing ideas. Don’t think about spelling, grammar, or punctuation. Just get some words on the page. If you prefer to write in complete sentences, you can freewrite in a journal style, but still disregard the typical writing rules. This is an exercise in opening your mind.
You don’t even need to stick to your topic. Even if you just write, “I don’t know what to write” over and over again, you are still getting words on the page. Keep writing until the words start to flow freely and your mind comes back to your writing topic.
Take a Break from Writing
If the words still won’t come, don’t torture yourself by staring at the blank page. Get up, stretch, walk away, or get something to eat. Even a five minute break can do wonders for your peace of mind. If you have the time, put the writing away for a day or more. Sometimes letting a piece “marinate” can bring it new life when you pick it back up.
The key to easing writer’s block is to avoid panicking. Remember that all writers experience writer’s block sometimes. It’s a normal part of the process. Relax, enjoy the challenge, and the words will come to you.
Kari Lomanno - Kari Lomanno is a high school English teacher and mother of two children ages 9 and 7. She lives in Chesapeake, Virginia with her husband ...
Join the Conversation