Three steps to break an essay writer's block

So I had to write a 300 word blog post for a writing job application yesterday. It was a random topic about a business strategy. I wasn't too fussed with the topic, I spent two years studying management before the content became largely lethargic and I headed on to pastures new. However, at least I gained the ability to knock out some academic writing.

The issue was the little clock counting down on the top right of my screen, I had forty minutes to complete the test, not a problem. Except, as my fingers caressed the keyboard, all I could hear was the incessant silent beats of the tick tock, tick tock. My mind went blank. Fortunately, this was not the first time I've faced a strict deadline and found a mental wall in my way. Over the years I have worked out a few tools to get me on track and at least writing something. I've found that once I get going, the words travel onto the screen fairly easily.


Technique 1: Walking around, mumbling to myself.
Sitting and staring doesn't help anyone, not least me. It is proven that a walk around actually stimulates brain cells into making connections. Try it, it really works. I often pace the halls jubilantly muttering words of wisdom, like some insane captured villain plotting his vengeance.

Technique 2: Plan your paragraphs

I can't sell this enough - writing anything factual - perhaps anything at all - needs planning. The simplest way to do this is to paragraph the content. You will need an introduction - so first paragraph is simply "Introduction" Then you simplify each subsequent paragraph into a keyword or argument. Do not overwrite at this stage, unless you suddenly conjure a perfectly timeless quotable prose that you must simply thrown down before it's lost in your forgotten memory somewhere between your partner's favourite fragrance and the first lines of S Club 7's 'Reach'.
From this point it becomes much easier to flesh out each paragraph, and your writing has a structure as a starting point. It can always be jiggled around at some point once the writing is flowing.

Technique 3: Do Some Research

When I really struggle for inspiration on a certain topic, I remember the whole point of academic writing, comparing and critiquing other people's work. Stop for a moment - google your topic and find another point of view. It could be that one piece of the jigsaw that completes your work and leave you ready to write.

Whatever the strategy - just don't leave academic writing to the last minute. As I learnt in the job application - you always end up needing just a little more time!