It doesn’t matter what genre you writing or whether you are working on a lengthy novel series or a short story. Writer’s block can happen.

If you have read other stuff from me about the topic of writer’s block, you may know that I don’t believe in it as a definitive concept. In other words, I think what many people call writer’s block is really something different. Barring serious psychological or emotional difficulties that can, indeed, stop you from all forward progress, writer’s block is usually uncertainty, fear, poor self-confidence, and lack of effort. This isn’t a judgment call. All suffer from these things once in a while. However, they are more like rough roads or temporary obstacles and true blocks.

No matter what you call it or how you define it, you can get back to writing more quickly with these 99% effective tips for beating writer’s block.

Make Writing a Priority – Any Writing

When you sit down in front of your computer to write, remain firm in your dedication to write anything. I see many people so focused on writing the next chapter in your book or the next 500 words of the short story that, if they aren’t quite sure where the plot goes or character development isn’t quite enough yet, they simply write nothing.

If it’s writing time, write something, and don’t feel bad it’s not what you plan to write. Some options include:

  • A brand-new or existing other story
  • Outlining notes for future chapters
  • Exploratory writing for your character
  • A blog post for your writer’s website
  • Journal entry to brainstorm ideas

Prepare Well to Stop Writer’s Block

Some pantsers insist that any planning is bad and they will never do it. However, if you get stuck in your story, it may be time to abandon this ideal and do some plot preparation. Taking notes, outlining, or using a beat sheet is no less creative than some plea spewing words onto the page. Many successful authors suggest preparation to fuel your creative mind.

Also, if your story requires research, doing that first can also help you destroy writer’s block. One explored concept or discovered fact may spark your brain to life once again.

Turn to Writing Prompts and Random Generators

If writer’s block stops you from working on an existing story, or you simply want to write something but have no ideas, consider one of the many writing prompts or generators on the Internet. Some varieties include:

  • Photo writing prompts
  • Five-word inclusions
  • Random first lines
  • Generated plot points
  • Character descriptions

Not only can prompts help get past your block, they may trigger an exciting new idea for a complete story. I personally use writing prompts to practice technique and create more content to share on this blog and the one over at MLoriMotley.com

Rewrite or Retype Content to Get In the Flow

When all else fails, force yourself back into the flow of writing through muscle memory. Actually retype the last chapter with few pages of your story and see if your brain kicks in to continue once you get to the end. You do not need to rewrite anything in a new way if you use this method, although you can if you find something that needs it.

If you don’t have an existing story you want to work on, consider typing someone else’s story to see if imagination takes over. This does not have to be fanfiction, and of course you cannot use another person story to post on your blog or when you publish. However, the simple act of typing out fiction as your brain follows along can sometimes force it past the writer’s block through action.

I would ask if you ever suffered from writer’s block, but most writers have in some form or another. This depends on your definition. I personally don’t call temporary indecision about plot points a true block. Nor do I label my imposter syndrome or fear about not being good enough this way. I haven’t run out of ideas yet, which is why I have so many unfinished projects.

How do you define writer’s block for yourself, and what methods you use to get past it?