Both creatively and academically, each of us have experienced cases of writer's block. Whether you are beginning a poem or a ten page midterm paper, here are five ways to start generating content and ideas for writing.
1. The blinking cursor and blank Word doc.
Looking at a large white space can be intimidating before writing. When you begin, even having a few words typed alleviates part of the pressure of starting a paper with nothing on the page. If you are writing for an assignment, you can occupy space within the document by copying and pasting guidelines. If you are without guidelines, having your name, date, and title on a document also helps. Don’t want to type? Start creating content on old worksheets or notes.
2. Don’t force “inspiration.”
If you do, it won’t happen. Many writers feel pressured to provide words that will resonate with their audience, making their work an attempt to achieve perfection. In a way, that is not conducive to formulating content. If this pressure exists, many people search for forced inspiration, thinking that the end result will be substantial. For one, sought after inspiration doesn’t always guarantee great writing results, so to have the impression that it does is a false expectation that many writers have. If you are pressured for time, try generating content through brainstorming of free-writing instead of forcing yourself to look for inspiration. Oftentimes, doing writing exercises has the potential to create genuine, unprompted inspiration.
3. Go meta.
Can’t think of anything to write? Start writing about your writing process — difficulties, absurdities, whatever is happening in the space you’re in. This allows you to produce content, and it may lead you to a topic you find important. Writing about writing also has the potential to create a sufficient and good working piece.
4. Have something to say.
Watch the news, talk to a friend, think back to the time your girlfriend used all of the toothpaste. What excites you? What pisses you off? What do you really want to say to your boss? Thinking, or asking questions that prompt an emotional response can often generate writable content. I’m not suggesting putting yourself in an unhealthy emotional state by pulling up old resentments. No, I’m saying be in tune with your emotions —presently, or reflecting on how you’ve felt in the past. Writing about how you feel is not only therapeutic, but is a good starting place to begin your first paragraph.
5. Do everything but write to begin the writing process.
Listen to music, go for a walk, make a snack and watch an episode of your favorite T.V. show. Not consciously thinking about what you’re going to write allows your mind to open up and process activities that could inspire writing.
