Writer’s block is something that has most likely affected every Magnet student at some point in their writing career. It is extremely frustrating because it seems like no matter how hard you try you just cannot get any words down on the page. In fact this article was inspired because I had writer’s block and did not know what to write about. Every person differs in how they get around this problem, but here are some tips that I use that seem to work.
- Change the setting
Oftentimes moving physical locations can be all that is needed for your mind to open up and words to start flowing. Let’s be honest most of the classrooms at Magnet are pretty depressing and aren’t exactly a place for inspiring creativity. Some great places to move to are the library, where it will for sure be quiet enough for you to work. I also like the courtyard, something about sitting outside in nature helps me focus and start writing. Sometimes writing at different times of the day helps. I usually do all my homework after dinner and sometimes this stops my writing. Because of this I try to get some work done right after school if I’m having trouble writing.
2. Brainstorming
Sometimes what is stopping your writing is because you have no idea what to write about. Brainstorming is a way to plan out your ideas and formulate a plan for success. You can do this many ways, I like to just think about it but some people like to outline or free write for a little bit. This can help you create a visual for your ideas. Sometimes it helps me look at the assignment in a new light, or if I am stressed out can help me realize what I need to do.
3. Take a break
To me this is the most effective method. If I am ever struggling to get words down on the page I like to get up and go downstairs for a snack or go walk the dog. This can help reset your mind and open it to new ideas that you cannot see right now because you are stuck. If you are in school and can’t just go outside or go for a walk, I suggest going to the bathroom, or going to get some water from the water fountain. Whatever you do, just make sure you take a break from staring at your writing, because that will not help you at all.
4. Accept imperfection
Sometimes just getting words down on the paper can help, no matter how bad they are. If you do all of these steps and it is still not helping your writer’s block, I suggest you just start writing your paper. No matter how bad it is just start and do not stop. While this may seem counterintuitive, it really helps to flesh out the basic ideas of your writing. While it may be really bad, remember that you can always go bad and edit your writing and make changes.
No matter what you do, getting over writer’s block is just the first step. While it may seem daunting at first, getting over writer’s block is simple if you just follow these easy steps.
