17 Overcoming Writer’s Block
“I honestly think the hardest part for me is actually just sitting down to start writing. I can sit at the computer staring for hours before anything useful comes out. My best way around this is, when I have a block or need to start, is to write it out by hand. There is something visceral and creative in the way the brain functions when handwriting versus typing. This has worked for me every time, and I usually come up with some of my best points by hand.”
PhD, 3rd year
One struggle most students will have during the writing process is writer’s block, defined as “the condition of being unable to think of what to write or how to proceed with writing.” This section provides helpful solutions for when students hit a block and are unable to write.
“We all often feel like we are pulling teeth, even those writers whose prose ends up being the most natural and fluid. The right words and sentences just do not come pouring out like ticker tape most of the time… Almost all good writing begins with terrible first efforts. You need to start somewhere. Start by getting something – anything – down on paper.”
Ann Lamott, Bird by Bird, 1995, pp. 22, 25
How to overcome writer’s block
It is not uncommon to experience writer’s block while working on your thesis. If you find yourself stuck, don’t panic – there are a number of strategies you can employ to help you overcome writer’s block and get back on track with your writing.
Create a writing routine
Another helpful strategy is to create a writing routine. Creating a writing routine helps improve productivity and writing quality by providing structure and consistency to your writing process. Repeat the same steps each time you begin to write.
