A writer's worst nightmare: the crippling inability to write. Whether you’re completing a research paper, drafting a screen play, or journaling, these helpful tips and tricks can help you overcome the infamous writer’s block:

Free Write

Free writing refers to the technique of writing nonstop for a set amount of time, ignoring the urge to correct or edit, and writing whatever comes to mind without censorship or fear of judgment. To get started, throw everything you know about grammar, punctuation, and structure out the window. Pick a set amount of time, maybe five minutes, and just write with reckless abandon. At the end of this free writing session your writing may look like a chaotic stream of consciousness, but you may be able to pick out ideas from this blurb of writing and develop them further.

Take a Break

Sometimes you’ve been staring at your own words so long that your thoughts are being recycled and nothing productive is being achieved. During these moments, it may be best to step away from the blank page and look out the window, or begin a new activity entirely. Taking a break will give your mind time to re-energize, and you’ll have a fresh start once you return to your paper. Perhaps take a walk; inspiration hides in unexpected places.

Exercise

Exercise increases blood and oxygen circulation to the brain, which means that after a good workout you will be more alert and able to concentrate on the task at hand. So instead of sitting on a chair for hours trying to perfect a sentence, try hitting the gym for a change of pace. When you get back you’ll feel good about yourself, and maybe your elevated mood and newly-found focus will motivate you to climb over the writer’s block that was holding you back.

Talk it out

You have the ideas floating around in your head, but you can’t find a way to get them down on paper. The best remedy for this is to find a friend, roommate, or another willing participant and talk to them about your subject. Even through a casual conversation you can learn about what is important and how you want to present your topic. It might also be helpful for you and another person to bounce ideas off each other, and get suggestions about how to approach your topic.

Look at Creative Writing Prompts

Instead of trying to write the same thing that you have been stuck on, try writing something new. Look at creative writing prompts and tackle an interesting topic, or try writing a poem about an emotion or an object around you. This fun writing activity will both get you writing and give you a break from the same assignment you’ve been working on.

Next time you're writing and your mind draws a blank, try some of these tips to get you back on track.