Writer’s Block

Writer’s Block

As Nigel Warburton (2007, p. 15) says, ‘If you have something to write, it is amazing how easy it is to find other things to do’. Writers from all levels experience an overwhelming desire to do something other than write. To reassure you, this is entirely normal and to be expected.

So, if you are currently experiencing an urge to clean, tidy, sort cupboards or take the dog out, this is all part of the process of starting to write. The trick is to identify that writing-avoidance is happening and to force yourself to sit down and just make a start. Try the following:

1. Sit in front of a blank screen/piece of paper

2. Start by laying out your essay (name, pages numbers, title etc)

3. Have a go at writing your first line (you can always return to it later if you are not entirely happy with it)

4. Once you have put a few words ‘on paper’, you have started and the ‘task will seem less daunting’ (Warburton, 2007, p. 16).

Warburton has a few ‘top tips’:

· Do something, rather than nothing.

· A few headings will ‘kick-start’ the writing process.

· Take short, but regular, breaks (every 40 mins or so) as you write. These serve as rewards and will enhance productivity.

Importantly, do not aim for the perfect piece of writing – it only has to be good enough!

Warburton, N. (2007)The Basics of Essay Writing . Abington-on-Thames: Routledge.