The biggest challenge that most PhD scholars face during their PhD programmes is writer’s block. Thesis writing gives them a horrifying experience not because of extensive research and word count, but due to inability to think of what to write. If you are also facing this challenge, here are the tips that can help you overcome it.
Begin writing on any topic
If you are not habitual of writing, this strategy can be benign. Start writing on any topic that comes to your mind. The more you write, the more you generate ideas. Though the main purpose is to generate ideas, but bear in mind the grammatical and punctuation rules while writing. Otherwise you will commit errors in your thesis.
Identify where you get stuck and seek help
One of the reasons of writer’s block is the complexity of your project. Some scholars panic while finding gaps between research. Most of the times gaps are found in arguments. However, if you are unable to find those gaps, you should take help from your supervisor.
Review similar papers
A thought of writing 100 pages can be dreadful to you. You will be confused how to start and where to start from. The best solution to this problem is reading similar research papers. You will get an idea how to write the introduction, methods, data etc, and accordingly you will be able to plan your thesis writing.
Write regularly
Make a routine of writing daily. Even if you have a tight schedule, just write. It’s fine if you are able to devote only half-an-hour for your writing. But keep writing as it will prevent you from writer’s block. You should make a schedule and follow that strictly. To produce the flair of writing you should write at a particular time. Try to write in the most comfortable zone and when you are absolutely relaxed. Your writing will be hindered if your mind is brimming with unnecessary thoughts. Try to stay away from distractions at the time of writing so that you can completely focus on it.
Build writing from your inside
Another biggest cause of writer’s block among PhD scholars is they get overwhelmed by data and matter that they find on Google, journals articles, books etc. The best thing to break writer’s block is to note down all the sections that you will include in your thesis. For instance, the core of your research, questions that you are asking, hypothesis, conclusion etc. Write few sentences for each section, and then you can add references and information to support your arguments.
Take rest in case of lengthy writing periods
Your mind should be relaxed and creative at the time of writing. If you write for long hours, your brain could get tired of writing. You will not be able to have creative ideas. To avoid the break in your thoughts you should take rest. For instance, take a break of 15 minutes after constant 45 minutes of writing, and then start writing again.
