How To Get Past Writer's Block | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Student Life

How To Get Past Writer's Block

The article everyone in finals season has been waiting for.

35
How To Get Past Writer's Block

It is everyone's least favorite time of year-- spring quarter finals! The last obstacle before your fun-filled, relaxing summer. One more week of stress before a 12-week freedom. I don't know if it is just me, but this quarter has kept my schedule extremely booked with essay after essay after essay, each longer than the next (if you are reading this social life, I miss you.) Here are eight quick and easy tips I have found help clear my writer's block!

Go for a walk or run.

Giphy

I know, exercise is probably the last thing you want to do right now. But, believe it or not, exercise can actually improve brain function! According to Psychology Today, a quick 15 minute walk or jog can boost information processing and creativity in your brain.

Stretch.

Similar to walking or running, stretching can also aid in your writing process. Stretching sends oxygen to the brain which gives you a clearer mind and enhances your ability to focus. Some light yoga and meditation will help you relax and accelerate your ~creative flow.~

Eat a snack.

Giphy

You read that right! You should stress eat that chocolate peanut butter cup! Well, maybe not something too sugary, but it is actually OK to snack while working. Eating snacks can stabilize your energy levels, increase focus and mental sharpness!

Drink coffee or tea.

Giphy

As if you weren't doing this already, but a little caffeine goes a long way when it comes to clearing writers' blocks. Caffeine is key to feeling more alert and boosting productivity. Plus, you won't get sleepy due to caffeine's ability to block inhibitory neurotransmitters.

Take a nap.

Giphy

You're probably skeptical of this one after chugging coffee thanks to my last point… but hear me out!! Interesting Engineering discusses the benefits of "power naps," which include increased productivity, and even can "make you an all-around happier person!" Definitely an offer no one can refuse!

Read your favorite articles.

Re-reading articles or books that you have liked in the past can also help you defeat writer's block and enhance your writing abilities. In my experience, reviewing some of my favorite articles has stimulated new perspectives and writing styles I apply to my own papers (plus it is a fun study break!)

Review your notes.

Giphy

This one seems obvious, but also easily overlooked. You may think you already have all of the information you need for your paper, but a quick re-reading of your notes could provide you with that one bit of missed information that will help break down that mental block.

Write in a new location.

Giphy

A change of scenery can do more than switch up your view. Moving to a different setting can aid in brainstorming new perspectives and give you new ideas. Plus, you can grab a coffee or tea on your way!

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Lifestyle

Pros And Cons Of Having A Birthday Near The Holidays

The truth of what it is like having a birthday around the holiday season.

1772
Christmas decoration
Flickr

It's the most wonderful time of the year!! But for some people, including myself and my Dad, it can have its ups and downs when it comes to having a birthday near and around the holiday season. I personally share a birthday with my Dad two days before Christmas. Yes, Christmas Eve Eve is our birthday. Here are a few pros and cons for having a birthday near the holidays.

Keep Reading...Show less
Christmas Tree Lights
Pixabay

It is that time of year again. Christmastime. It is one of my favorite seasons for a myriad of reasons. Here are just a few reasons why I love Christmas. This list is in no order of importance.

1. The Christmas decorations

I am that person who will decorate directly after Thanksgiving is over. This year, my roommates and I put the tree up in our apartment before we even left for Thanksgiving break. It is a great stress reliever for me to just sit in my living room and work on the huge amount of work I have before the semester is over.

Keep Reading...Show less
girl with santa hat
Photo by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash

'Tis the season to be jolly folks, and if you're anything like me, then at the stroke of midnight on Halloween your home went from wicked to winter

Keep Reading...Show less
mistake
Project Eve

Mistakes are something we all make, no matter how old we get. Most of the time, the mistakes we made are little and sometimes due to something out of our control. Yet, there are mistakes that are bigger than others. Personally, I have mistakes that I wish I could go back and undo. Here they are:

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

5 Things To Do That Are Better Than Writing A Paper

Don't waste your time trying to write that paper when there are so many more interesting things you could be doing.

13210
computer keyboard
Unsplash

Writing a paper is never fun and is rarely rewarding. The writer's block, the page requirement, be specific, but don’t summarize, make sure you fixed any grammatical errors, did you even use spellcheck? and analyze, analyze, analyze.

Papers can be a major pain. They take up so much time and effort that by the end of the process you hate yourself and you hate the professor for making life so difficult. Questions of your existence start roaming in your mind. Am I even cut out for college if I can’t write a single paper? Am I even capable of taking care of myself if I lack the energy to open my laptop and start typing?

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments