Whether someone needs to write a blog, an academic essay, or a technical report, getting started can be one of the most difficult parts of writing. Brainstorming helps writers create more and increase productivity by outlining the work ahead. Writers can try these strategies to kickstart their writing process and overcome blocks.
Freewriting
Freewriting is a technique that can help writers formulate ideas, pull together an organizational structure or work through a writing block. To freewrite, writers simply set an alarm for a certain amount of time and write without stopping until the timer goes off. The set writing time is up to the author, but smaller amounts of time, such as ten to fifteen minutes, work well for people who want to get ideas on to the page. This technique also prevents writers from editing instead of writing.
Perspective Writing
Using a writing technique that involves examining a writer’s work from a different perspective can help them approach their topic differently and brainstorm new ideas. This brainstorming strategy involves a process of first outlining what the topic or writing project is by brainstorming what it means, the core components of the topic and the challenges or arguments. Writers then think about the chronology of the topic and how that could influence the author’s approach. Finally, they draw, such as through concept mapping, the different connective points between their topic and other works. This can help writers understand where to place the topic within the current body of knowledge, the unique spin of the article, or conventions to observe.
Nutshelling
An easy way to use a brainstorming method to start writing is to outline the purpose or meaning of the topic. In the nutshell technique, writers simply explain the topic and purpose of their writing in a few succinct sentences. The first sentence provides a broad view of the topic and what writers want to achieve in the piece. The next few sentences should outline subtopics and minor points to relate within the writing.
By beginning the writing process with brainstorming, writers can approach their work more methodically. The success of different techniques depends on the individual. It is a good idea for writers to employ multiple methods to find out what works for them. These are three brainstorming strategies that can help writers get a clearer understanding of their work.