Beat the Blank Page

We’ve all been there: even though countless words and scenes are floating in our heads, it can somehow feel impossible to put those thoughts into actual writing. The result? Hours, days, or even weeks spent staring at a blank page, feeling like nothing you create is good enough. But don’t worry: there’s a way out of this rut, and we’re here to help. Here are five simple writing exercises to help you overcome writer’s block.

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1. Try Different Prompts

The first exercise to try when you have writer's block? Tackling different types of prompts. If you normally write romance, try writing horror or mystery; if you usually write in first person, try third person. Going outside your typical genre and challenging yourself to think outside the box may help you get out of your rut.

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2. Try Different Mediums

If you usually write on your computer, try changing mediums and write the old-school way: with pen and paper. Sometimes, switching up your methods can flip your perspective, and your brain might find it easier to write without a built-in spellchecker always underlining your mistakes in red.

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3. Write the Scenes You Want First

If you're writing a story, instead of writing everything linearly, try writing the scenes you want first. After all, even if you leave notes for yourself, there's a chance you won't imagine it as clearly as you do now, so get it out while it's still fresh in your mind. Worry about connecting all the pieces later.

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4. Freewrite for 10 Minutes

Another exercise you can try is to simply freewrite for however long you want, whether it's for five, 10, or 15 minutes. Don't think too much about it and just write whatever comes to mind. Don't stress about choosing the "perfect" word or even over grammar or spelling mistakes. Just write.

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5. Rewrite Something in Your Own Words

Try reading a book, a magazine, or an article online. Pay attention to the words the author used and ask yourself why they might have chosen the phrases they did. Then pick out a section and try paraphrasing or rewriting it in your own words.

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