Freewriting: Improve Your Craft and Beat Writer's Block

Most of us who do an above-average amount of writing, whether it be for school, work or just for fun, will experience writer's block at some point. You will probably find yourself staring at the blank page (or computer screen) wondering how you can possibly come up with any new ideas. Relax; there is a simple easy way to overcome writer's block, and it's called freewriting.

Freewriting is a form of discovery. You will be able to put down on paper the thoughts and ideas that are not yet fully formed. Freewriting will help you explore and generate new ideas without the pressures of complete sentences or coherency.

Here are some guidelines for your first foray into freewriting.

Use an ordinary notebook and pen or pencil. It's best to stick with your usual writing supplies, something you feel comfortable with. Comfort and familiarity is the key. Find a quiet place to sit where you won't be disturbed by outside noises or distractions. Some people even write in the dark, or in a closet or other small space.

Typing on the computer is fine, although there are some freewriting purists who maintain that the only way to connect organically to your thought process is through writing by hand. If you decide to freewrite on the computer, consider closing your eyes and focusing on the words themselves and not on the computer screen or the keyboard. This is also a useful technique when writing by hand also.

Set yourself a certain amount of time to freewrite. Most people find it difficult to freewrite for more than ten to fifteen minutes. Consider beginning with a short freewrite session, like five minutes for your very first time. Set a timer or alarm so that you don't have to worry about checking the time. Another technique is to fill a certain number of pages instead of freewriting for a certain amount of time.

Write continuously about whatever comes to mind. Don't stop writing until your time is up. Don't focus on whether your words are good or bad, or even if they make sense. Certainly do not worry about spelling, punctuation or grammar. No one will see this but you. Silence the inner critic that is constantly judging your writing. The purpose of freewriting is to release you from the confines of standard writing practices. Embrace freewriting and your formal writing will benefit greatly.

When your time is up, reread what you have written. Feel free to circle or highlight the parts you think will be useful later.

Freewriting is useful for beating writer's block because it helps you overcome the fears and negative critical thoughts that stop you from writing. Freewriting often leads to a more relaxed formal writing. Freewriting will help you beat writer's block by turning your creativity on like a water faucet, allowing you to pour your ideas upon the page.