9 Tips on How to Overcome Writer's Block

Experiment: Try to write in different places, at different times, and with different writing instruments.

Freewrite: Choose one sentence in a paragraph and write a paragraph about it. Then choose one sentence from that paragraph and do it again.

Cluster: Choose key words and ideas; then write associated ideas and words in clusters around them. This process often forms new ideas.

Be flexible: Be willing to throw out sections of text that are causing problems or just don't work.

Follow a routine -- Follow a routine to get into the writing mood. Try activities like wearing comfortable clothing, using a certain pen, or listening to a particular CD or type of music.

Move: Physically move around, stretch, or walk.

Take a break: Get a snack or drink, talk to someone, or just relax for five minutes before starting to write again.

Concentrate: Focus on a different section or aspect of your paper. This sometimes leads to new insights in problem areas, while allowing you to get work done on another section.

Re-read: Read a print draft of the paper and jot down ideas while reading.

Relax!: The more you worry, the harder it gets to think clearly.

Thanks to Literacy Education Online - read more