Writer's block is quite possibly one of the most infuriating things to happen to a writer. As someone who has always enjoyed writing and is now pursuing writing as a career, here a few of my personal favorite ways to overcome writer's block.
Read related material
Reading another writer's work often inspires me to challenge their ideas and form opinions of my own. This method is especially helpful when you have writer's block while writing a historical, political or factual essay. Reading three or four related works to your topic gets your brain working and opinions will soon begin to start swirling in your head.
Eat a meal
I have to admit, this is probably my favorite solution to writer's block. Sometimes writer's block is just a result of not having enough brain power to form coherent thoughts. Eating a quick snack or a light meal can give you the little boost of energy needed to jump-start your thinking process.
Take a shower or bath
We all know that the shower is where all of our best ideas come from. If you think you may begin to daydream and your mind may wander off, write your prompt or topic on a sticky note and stick it to the tile of your shower.
Extra writing tip: ALWAYS have a pen and paper nearby for when inspiration strikes. Even in the shower. No exceptions.
Talk to knowledgable people
If you're writing a paper on a topic that you are not passionate about or do not know much about, find someone who is. Ask them to meet with you to discuss it. People love talking about topics they are passionate about, so I can practically guarantee you that they will be more than happy to meet with you. If you cannot bring yourself to be passionate about a particular subject, build your article off of their passion.
Take a break
This may seem obvious but just take a break. And no, I do not mean take a four-hour nap instead of writing. Take a meaningful break. Go see a movie with a group of friends, go for a run, go to an art exhibit. Inspiration will jump out at you if you give it the opportunity. Get out of your writing space and your own head and just have some fun for a few hours.