Everyone has a time where they literally cannot think of anything to write about, including me. Whenever I get into this funk I have some things I like to do to help generate some ideas. Sometimes they work, sometimes they don't, but everyone is different — maybe something that is not always successful for me will be very useful to you. The next time you have major writer's block but have some papers to write, try out these tips to get you writing again:
1. Write nonstop for 10 minutes
This is something I learned in high school, and it has actually been pretty helpful. Sometimes when you can't write, it's because you have so many other things in your head that are blocking all of your good ideas. When this happens literally grab a piece of paper and write down everything in your head for ten minutes without stopping. Even if you have to write "I don't know what to write" a few times, it'll definitely help you clear out your head and maybe even get an idea while doing your free write.
2. Think about what you did in the past week
Sometimes reminiscing about the good times you have had within the last week can help generate ideas on things to write about. If something really funny happened, write about it. If something that made you really mad happened, write about it. Any story from your week that you can write something about do it. Sometimes that is all it takes.
3. Think about the last book you read, TV show/movie you watched
Sometimes a book, TV show, or movie can spark an idea, because of something that happens in the material, or because of how much you may have liked/disliked it. I think it's really fun to watch a new show or movie and be able to write exactly what made you love it or hate it.
4. Google topics to write about
Coming with a new idea every week is hard so sometimes I hit up Google to give me ideas, then I tweak them a little bit to fit me more. Although, sometimes I don't find anything useful so it doesn't always work.
5. Talk to your friends and family
Sometimes just talking things through, or just talking about anything, in general, can get ideas flowing. You can also ask your friends about stuff they would want to read about, including pop culture, politics, sports, and so much more. Everyone has a different opinion on things so explore those opinions and see if any of them strike you.
6. TAKE A BREAK
This is what I think is the most important thing you can do. Staring at your empty word document for hours on end is not going to help you think of something to write about. You need to take a break every now and then to let your brain focus on something else. Take a nap, go to the gym, go outside, go for a walk, there are so many things to do to take a break.
With all of that being said happy writing!
