Writing a flawless research document is difficult and stressful. This, coupled with the dreadful due date, peer review, etc. can paralyze you and stop you from pouring your thoughts. Writer’s block is not about not knowing what to write but is all about the fear of not being able to craft a perfect research document. Writer’s block happens to every writer (especially the first time writers) and is invertible. But taking measures to overcome it can help you increase your productivity & progress with your research document.
But why do academicians face writer’s block?
- Fear of rejection from the supervisor
- Perfectionism
- Fear of mediocrity
- Continuous distraction
- Procrastination
Given these blend of emotional, cognitive, rhetorical and behavioural forces, arming yourself with effective strategies can help you overcome this terrifying & paralyzing effect and proceed with your research document.
1. Begin with the big picture of your research
One way to get rid of the writer’s block in academia is to motivate yourself (all again). Begin with your research question. Pen down ‘why is your research important?’ ‘what are its contributions?’ ‘how it can help you build your career?’. Keep your writing loose at this stage. Ignore grammatical errors and other language errors. Focus only on the importance of your research.
2. Review similar documents
The mere thought of writing a lengthy piece of work acts as a major roadblock in accomplishing a research document. At this stage, refer to the previous paper or research documents similar to that of your topic. Compare your data with that of the existing ones. This will provide you with some elements that can fit in your research document. But remember, do not copy-paste the elements. Instead, take the rough idea from them and write in your own words.
3. Jot down ideas
In spite of trying your best to concentrate on your writing, your mind might wander. An idea/thought might cross your head and disappear within no time. Keep a notepad with you and intrude your ideas on it. By recording the thoughts/ideas, you need not spend time in recalling them and also can address them whenever required.
4. Outline the sections
Do not get overwhelmed with the collected data and the details to be included in your research document. Begin by creating an outline of each section. Further, segregate the sections by points and subpoints. If you are willing to add relevant quotations to back your arguments, include them within the outline. Once the outline is ready, add wordings to formulate your thoughts.
5. Write regularly
As the saying goes, ‘practice makes a man perfect’, take out some time from your other academic activities and write whatever crosses your mind. Writing for an hour on a daily note will eliminate the starting trouble and will also train your brain.
There is no trick that helps you get rid of the writer’s block instantly. Add the above-mentioned tips to your arsenal and beat the writer’s block.