15 answers
Powder
Student
Pelham, Alabama
1
Question
Asked
2118 views
What things would help my writing become better?
I'm currently working on three novels although one is fan fiction so I guess that one doesn't count. I need help with writers block and with having too many ideas for new one novels when I haven't finished a single one or even finished the character sheet(s).
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15 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1333
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Powder,
That’s awesome that you’re working on multiple novels! It sounds like you’ve got a ton of creativity, which is amazing, but I totally get how that can also feel overwhelming.
One thing that can really help is picking one project to focus on, at least for a little while. That doesn’t mean you have to ignore all your other ideas—just keep a notebook (or a doc on your phone) where you can dump all those random thoughts and future story concepts. That way, you’re not losing them, but they’re not distracting you either.
If writer’s block is slowing you down, try writing out of order! Jump to a scene that excites you instead of forcing yourself to write everything in a straight line. Sometimes just getting words on the page—any words—helps shake off that stuck feeling. And if sitting at your desk feels like torture, change up your space. Write at a café, outside, or even on your phone while curled up on the couch.
Character sheets are great, but don’t feel like you have to figure out every little detail before you start writing. Characters often reveal themselves as you go. Give them a name, a basic personality, maybe a weird little habit, and just let them loose in your story. They’ll develop naturally as you write.
If new story ideas keep stealing your attention, try setting a fun goal—like finishing one full draft before starting another. You could even make a little reward system for yourself. Finished a chapter? Treat yourself to something fun. Hit a major milestone? Celebrate! Writing should feel exciting, not like a chore.
Most importantly, don’t stress about making it perfect. First drafts are supposed to be messy! The fun part is getting your ideas out, playing with them, and seeing where they take you. Editing and polishing can come later. Just keep writing, keep exploring, and most of all—have fun with it!
That’s awesome that you’re working on multiple novels! It sounds like you’ve got a ton of creativity, which is amazing, but I totally get how that can also feel overwhelming.
One thing that can really help is picking one project to focus on, at least for a little while. That doesn’t mean you have to ignore all your other ideas—just keep a notebook (or a doc on your phone) where you can dump all those random thoughts and future story concepts. That way, you’re not losing them, but they’re not distracting you either.
If writer’s block is slowing you down, try writing out of order! Jump to a scene that excites you instead of forcing yourself to write everything in a straight line. Sometimes just getting words on the page—any words—helps shake off that stuck feeling. And if sitting at your desk feels like torture, change up your space. Write at a café, outside, or even on your phone while curled up on the couch.
Character sheets are great, but don’t feel like you have to figure out every little detail before you start writing. Characters often reveal themselves as you go. Give them a name, a basic personality, maybe a weird little habit, and just let them loose in your story. They’ll develop naturally as you write.
If new story ideas keep stealing your attention, try setting a fun goal—like finishing one full draft before starting another. You could even make a little reward system for yourself. Finished a chapter? Treat yourself to something fun. Hit a major milestone? Celebrate! Writing should feel exciting, not like a chore.
Most importantly, don’t stress about making it perfect. First drafts are supposed to be messy! The fun part is getting your ideas out, playing with them, and seeing where they take you. Editing and polishing can come later. Just keep writing, keep exploring, and most of all—have fun with it!
Karen Kitchel
Community Volunteer
379
Answers
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Updated
Karen’s Answer
Writing is a great skill and something you can enjoy doing throughout your life. When you have ideas, jot them down on a list and put the list aside. You can always go back to it years from now and see what inspires you.
Keep on reading what others have written and begin a draft of your first novel. Keep in mind, it's not your final words and you can always put it aside if it doesn't feel right. The less pressure you feel to write, probably the better job you will do. Perhaps start with a short story -- finish it and celebrate your accomplishment.
With every good wish and many blessings,
Karen
Keep on reading what others have written and begin a draft of your first novel. Keep in mind, it's not your final words and you can always put it aside if it doesn't feel right. The less pressure you feel to write, probably the better job you will do. Perhaps start with a short story -- finish it and celebrate your accomplishment.
With every good wish and many blessings,
Karen
Carole Young
Self Employed
2
Answers
Washington, Indiana
Updated
Carole’s Answer
I was first narrow things down a bit three novels is too much at one time try picking one novel and starting with your first chapter. Try outline your book on the plot and storyline. Things I would think would be helpful would be to make an outline starting with the opening plot, main characters, and basic storyline. I hope this helps.
Miracle Ugochukwu
writer
3
Answers
Lagos, Nigeria
Updated
Miracle’s Answer
To make your writing better:
- Read a lot of different things.
- Write often.
- Join a group of writers.
- Learn the basics like grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
- Revise and edit your work.
To beat writer's block:
- Take a break to clear your head.
- Try writing somewhere new or at a different time.
- Do warm-up exercises to spark creativity.
- Focus on one part, like a scene or character, at a time.
- Get inspired by reading, watching movies, chatting with people, or visiting new places.
To handle multiple projects:
- Finish one project before starting another.
- Be honest about which projects matter most to you.
For managing too many ideas:
- Write down all your ideas to keep track of them.
- Keep a separate note for ideas that don't fit your current project. They might work for another story later.
- Read a lot of different things.
- Write often.
- Join a group of writers.
- Learn the basics like grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
- Revise and edit your work.
To beat writer's block:
- Take a break to clear your head.
- Try writing somewhere new or at a different time.
- Do warm-up exercises to spark creativity.
- Focus on one part, like a scene or character, at a time.
- Get inspired by reading, watching movies, chatting with people, or visiting new places.
To handle multiple projects:
- Finish one project before starting another.
- Be honest about which projects matter most to you.
For managing too many ideas:
- Write down all your ideas to keep track of them.
- Keep a separate note for ideas that don't fit your current project. They might work for another story later.
Joanne Wiess
teacher
7
Answers
East Norriton, PA
Updated
Joanne’s Answer
One of the most helpful things is to become not just a participant in your life but an observer as well. There is a rich world that gives depth to experience when you allow the happenings around you to lead you to insight. For instance, if you are in a group of friends you can participate in the activity but also quiet your part for moments to observe the interactions and the surroundings as if you are an anthropologist studying the group and place. It will broaden perspective and when you write do the same thing with your writing you can build insightful character and settings.
Kari Lundy
13
Answers
Des Moines, Iowa
Updated
Kari’s Answer
Don't discount fan fiction. It is true that you can't make any money off fan fiction, but what you can do is practice all the things you need to be a good writer while doing so.
Writers' block is a common problem to have. One technique I've learned over the years is to read the very last paragraph that I wrote and then delete it and start all over again with that paragraph. Whether it comes out the same or different doesn't matter because the act of writing that portion in and of itself sometimes can get things flowing again.
Another way to get past it is to try something different. Find things out in the world to inspire you. The world around you can help move along with your plot.
A good way to get through a story, sometimes, is to go back to the basics of writing that we all learned about in school. Outlines.
Start by making an outline of who the characters are that you introduce in the first chapter, what happens in the second and so forth. This at least can help give you a road map as to where you want to end up and make it much easier to actually finish something. It's difficult to get to the end of your story if you don't even know where that story is going or why. Free writing - where you don't use such methods, is one way of writing but unless you've got an outline in your head from start to finish it's really difficult to do.
Don't focus on character sheets. That's probably the very last thing you should be doing unless you're writing a Table Top manual. While character sheets can serve as you own guides to the various characters and help you remember things, I wouldn't focus on making them for everyone that is in the story. A simple summary of the main characters and their objectives, possibly flaws, and a bit of back story on them to help keep them fresh in your mind should be all you need if you decide to make such sheets. Most times in my stories, even with the fan fiction I do, I keep a "cast" list at the bottom, usually all it includes is a name and age, but if say like they get married or change jobs, I make little notes down their names about it and keep track of events too that are major... like if a character gets wounded in a battle, I will note it down and later how long it took for them to heal (depending on how grievous the wound).
As for all those ideas you have, write them down. Even if they have nothing to do with each other, treat it like a 'to do list' and keep it handy once you've gotten all your ideas down on a separate page or even paper. You can use it like a 'cheat sheet' if you get stuck and find you're not sure where you want the story to go next. By giving yourself these little waypoints you'll find navigating your story to go much easier rather than just trying to write it all in one go like a term paper you need to turn in.
Make sure to take breaks. Everyone needs a little TLC and if you just push yourself to write and stare at a page - blank or not - and find you're not getting anywhere, then you need to go do something else if all your attempts at getting past writer's block haven't worked. A mind that is pressured to do one task won't perform it very well if bullied into it and your story will suffer in the long run if you force it without giving your mind a chance to consider other things and naturally find inspiration for the next steps.
This includes reading books, fan fiction, even fiction. Inspiration comes from all around us and sometimes can be found in strange places. From a leaf on the ground to a piece of garbage you might see lying in the street. Anything and everything in this world can be part of the art that is the written word if only you find that part that can inspire you.
Writers' block is a common problem to have. One technique I've learned over the years is to read the very last paragraph that I wrote and then delete it and start all over again with that paragraph. Whether it comes out the same or different doesn't matter because the act of writing that portion in and of itself sometimes can get things flowing again.
Another way to get past it is to try something different. Find things out in the world to inspire you. The world around you can help move along with your plot.
A good way to get through a story, sometimes, is to go back to the basics of writing that we all learned about in school. Outlines.
Start by making an outline of who the characters are that you introduce in the first chapter, what happens in the second and so forth. This at least can help give you a road map as to where you want to end up and make it much easier to actually finish something. It's difficult to get to the end of your story if you don't even know where that story is going or why. Free writing - where you don't use such methods, is one way of writing but unless you've got an outline in your head from start to finish it's really difficult to do.
Don't focus on character sheets. That's probably the very last thing you should be doing unless you're writing a Table Top manual. While character sheets can serve as you own guides to the various characters and help you remember things, I wouldn't focus on making them for everyone that is in the story. A simple summary of the main characters and their objectives, possibly flaws, and a bit of back story on them to help keep them fresh in your mind should be all you need if you decide to make such sheets. Most times in my stories, even with the fan fiction I do, I keep a "cast" list at the bottom, usually all it includes is a name and age, but if say like they get married or change jobs, I make little notes down their names about it and keep track of events too that are major... like if a character gets wounded in a battle, I will note it down and later how long it took for them to heal (depending on how grievous the wound).
As for all those ideas you have, write them down. Even if they have nothing to do with each other, treat it like a 'to do list' and keep it handy once you've gotten all your ideas down on a separate page or even paper. You can use it like a 'cheat sheet' if you get stuck and find you're not sure where you want the story to go next. By giving yourself these little waypoints you'll find navigating your story to go much easier rather than just trying to write it all in one go like a term paper you need to turn in.
Make sure to take breaks. Everyone needs a little TLC and if you just push yourself to write and stare at a page - blank or not - and find you're not getting anywhere, then you need to go do something else if all your attempts at getting past writer's block haven't worked. A mind that is pressured to do one task won't perform it very well if bullied into it and your story will suffer in the long run if you force it without giving your mind a chance to consider other things and naturally find inspiration for the next steps.
This includes reading books, fan fiction, even fiction. Inspiration comes from all around us and sometimes can be found in strange places. From a leaf on the ground to a piece of garbage you might see lying in the street. Anything and everything in this world can be part of the art that is the written word if only you find that part that can inspire you.
Richard Caldwell
Broker
16
Answers
New Windsor, Maryland
Updated
Richard’s Answer
Seems like you are brimming with ideas but lack a process to capture them and to write a story.
First step is to write down your high level ideas using one sheet of paper to capture one idea. Organize them in a binder so you can review them at a later time. This will help you to clear your mind and sort through them to select the ones that will be the basis of your story. Build your characters in a similar manner. Make them human using quirks and flaws. Mix traits like strong willed with humble to create internal conflict. Everyone of us is flawed in some fashion, but have positive traits as well. Know each character really well before you ever give them dialogue. That way you can add depth through the choice of words they use and how they speak. Create worlds the same way building it out from say a castle on a hilltop. Is it in good repair or is it abandoned? Within the castle describe the rooms you think would be interesting. Go on adding details until you know the location well. Do this to pricess to create each scene you need for your story. Add weather and time of day or night. Balance detail with pacing. The more detail, the slower the pace. I could go on forever with writing tips. Best idea is to read books you like and study how the authors write. What words do they use to describe things? Do you feel drawn into the story? Can you visualize the characters? Read, read, read.
First step is to write down your high level ideas using one sheet of paper to capture one idea. Organize them in a binder so you can review them at a later time. This will help you to clear your mind and sort through them to select the ones that will be the basis of your story. Build your characters in a similar manner. Make them human using quirks and flaws. Mix traits like strong willed with humble to create internal conflict. Everyone of us is flawed in some fashion, but have positive traits as well. Know each character really well before you ever give them dialogue. That way you can add depth through the choice of words they use and how they speak. Create worlds the same way building it out from say a castle on a hilltop. Is it in good repair or is it abandoned? Within the castle describe the rooms you think would be interesting. Go on adding details until you know the location well. Do this to pricess to create each scene you need for your story. Add weather and time of day or night. Balance detail with pacing. The more detail, the slower the pace. I could go on forever with writing tips. Best idea is to read books you like and study how the authors write. What words do they use to describe things? Do you feel drawn into the story? Can you visualize the characters? Read, read, read.
Saint P
SongWriter and Creative writer
59
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Saint’s Answer
Hey Powder!
I totally get what you're going through. Working on multiple novels can be really overwhelming, especially when you’ve got tons of ideas bouncing around. I’m actually the same way sometimes I start one project and then get distracted by a new idea before finishing the last one. So, trust me, you’re not alone in this!
For writer’s block, don’t worry about getting it perfect right away. I often find myself stuck too, but I’ve learned that writing a little bit every day whether it’s a few lines or just a scene helps. You don’t have to finish the whole novel at once. If you get stuck on one part, skip ahead to something you’re excited about, or just freewrite to get the creative juices flowing.
About the too many ideas I do this all the time! I have my laptop full of new ideas, and it’s hard not to get distracted by them. But the trick is to keep a separate place for them. That way, you don’t lose the ideas, but they won’t pull you away from the novel you’re working on. Focus on finishing one thing before diving into the next, and you’ll feel so accomplished when you finally wrap it up.
When it comes to character sheets, don’t overthink it like I sometimes do. Start with the basics like their name, a couple of key traits, and what they want in the story. You can always flesh them out later. I’ve learned that having a loose outline can keep me on track without making it feel too rigid.
And just remember writing is a marathon, not a sprint. I know the struggle, but consistency is key. Read books in the genre you’re working on, and keep writing, even if it’s messy. The important thing is to keep moving forward, even when it feels like you’re not making much progress.
You’ve got this! Seriously, we all go through it. One step at a time.
Good luck!
Saint
I totally get what you're going through. Working on multiple novels can be really overwhelming, especially when you’ve got tons of ideas bouncing around. I’m actually the same way sometimes I start one project and then get distracted by a new idea before finishing the last one. So, trust me, you’re not alone in this!
For writer’s block, don’t worry about getting it perfect right away. I often find myself stuck too, but I’ve learned that writing a little bit every day whether it’s a few lines or just a scene helps. You don’t have to finish the whole novel at once. If you get stuck on one part, skip ahead to something you’re excited about, or just freewrite to get the creative juices flowing.
About the too many ideas I do this all the time! I have my laptop full of new ideas, and it’s hard not to get distracted by them. But the trick is to keep a separate place for them. That way, you don’t lose the ideas, but they won’t pull you away from the novel you’re working on. Focus on finishing one thing before diving into the next, and you’ll feel so accomplished when you finally wrap it up.
When it comes to character sheets, don’t overthink it like I sometimes do. Start with the basics like their name, a couple of key traits, and what they want in the story. You can always flesh them out later. I’ve learned that having a loose outline can keep me on track without making it feel too rigid.
And just remember writing is a marathon, not a sprint. I know the struggle, but consistency is key. Read books in the genre you’re working on, and keep writing, even if it’s messy. The important thing is to keep moving forward, even when it feels like you’re not making much progress.
You’ve got this! Seriously, we all go through it. One step at a time.
Good luck!
Saint
Caitlyn Johnston
Senior Technical Writer
54
Answers
Odin, IL
Updated
Caitlyn’s Answer
Take writing classes and attend writer's workshops.
Teklemuz Ayenew Tesfay
Electrical engineer, researcher and Software Developer
105
Answers
Ethiopia
Updated
Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer
To elevate your writing process, it's essential to blend consistency with flexibility and nurture both creativity and discipline. Here's an integrated approach that will help you tackle writer's block, stay motivated, and stay focused on your projects:
Focus on one project and break it into smaller, manageable tasks. Prioritize completing specific chapters or scenes before jumping to another idea. Celebrate small wins to stay motivated and build momentum, ensuring you’re progressing step by step. Writing a "zero draft" without worrying about perfection is key—don't be afraid to jump to scenes that excite you, even if they’re out of order. Embrace different writing styles, voices, and points of view to keep your work fresh and engaging.
Create a consistent writing schedule. Dedicate specific times each day to writing and stick to it. Use writing sprints (e.g., 20-30 minutes) to stay focused and productive. A pre-writing ritual can help signal to your brain that it’s time to focus, whether it’s a warm-up exercise or a cup of tea. If you get stuck, write anything—character thoughts, random scenes, or even dialogue. Use writing prompts to get the creative juices flowing and revisit media that inspired you. A change of scenery or a quick break can also help reset your mind and spark new ideas.
When new ideas come to you, keep a notebook and explore them using the "What If" game. Organize and visualize connections between ideas with tools like mind mapping or bullet points. This helps keep new ideas organized without feeling overwhelmed. Track your progress and reward yourself when you hit milestones. Use affirmations like “I am a writer” to boost confidence, and visualize your success to stay connected to your story.
Start with simple character sheets, focusing on key traits and motivations. Build character arcs and ensure they evolve throughout the story. For worldbuilding, use tools like Scrivener or Notion to keep track of important details and maintain consistency. Write quickly without editing as you go—embrace imperfection. Completing the draft is more important than getting everything perfect in the first pass.
Engage with other writers for feedback and accountability. Join writing groups, share drafts with beta readers, or find a writing buddy to check in with regularly. Building a community can provide fresh perspectives and keep you motivated. Prioritize rest, exercise, and healthy habits to maintain mental clarity and creativity. Practice mindfulness or meditation to reduce stress and keep your ideas flowing. A well-balanced life supports your writing journey. Visualize your writing process, characters, and key scenes before diving in. This mental rehearsal helps you focus and reduces anxiety. Reaffirm your progress with daily positive reminders, reinforcing your identity as a writer. Write the scenes that excite you most, even if they’re not in order. Skip the hard scenes if necessary and come back to them later. This approach lets you maintain enthusiasm and keeps the writing process fluid. You can always rearrange scenes during editing, but the goal is to keep writing fun and forward-moving.
Celebrate every milestone, big or small. Remind yourself why you started writing and trust the process, knowing that every word brings you closer to your goal. Be patient with yourself, and stay confident that you’re making progress, no matter how gradual it may seem. By combining focus, flexibility, consistency, and self-compassion, you’ll create a writing environment that fosters creativity and helps you achieve your goals.
I hope these tips will help you. Good luck!
Focus on one project and break it into smaller, manageable tasks. Prioritize completing specific chapters or scenes before jumping to another idea. Celebrate small wins to stay motivated and build momentum, ensuring you’re progressing step by step. Writing a "zero draft" without worrying about perfection is key—don't be afraid to jump to scenes that excite you, even if they’re out of order. Embrace different writing styles, voices, and points of view to keep your work fresh and engaging.
Create a consistent writing schedule. Dedicate specific times each day to writing and stick to it. Use writing sprints (e.g., 20-30 minutes) to stay focused and productive. A pre-writing ritual can help signal to your brain that it’s time to focus, whether it’s a warm-up exercise or a cup of tea. If you get stuck, write anything—character thoughts, random scenes, or even dialogue. Use writing prompts to get the creative juices flowing and revisit media that inspired you. A change of scenery or a quick break can also help reset your mind and spark new ideas.
When new ideas come to you, keep a notebook and explore them using the "What If" game. Organize and visualize connections between ideas with tools like mind mapping or bullet points. This helps keep new ideas organized without feeling overwhelmed. Track your progress and reward yourself when you hit milestones. Use affirmations like “I am a writer” to boost confidence, and visualize your success to stay connected to your story.
Start with simple character sheets, focusing on key traits and motivations. Build character arcs and ensure they evolve throughout the story. For worldbuilding, use tools like Scrivener or Notion to keep track of important details and maintain consistency. Write quickly without editing as you go—embrace imperfection. Completing the draft is more important than getting everything perfect in the first pass.
Engage with other writers for feedback and accountability. Join writing groups, share drafts with beta readers, or find a writing buddy to check in with regularly. Building a community can provide fresh perspectives and keep you motivated. Prioritize rest, exercise, and healthy habits to maintain mental clarity and creativity. Practice mindfulness or meditation to reduce stress and keep your ideas flowing. A well-balanced life supports your writing journey. Visualize your writing process, characters, and key scenes before diving in. This mental rehearsal helps you focus and reduces anxiety. Reaffirm your progress with daily positive reminders, reinforcing your identity as a writer. Write the scenes that excite you most, even if they’re not in order. Skip the hard scenes if necessary and come back to them later. This approach lets you maintain enthusiasm and keeps the writing process fluid. You can always rearrange scenes during editing, but the goal is to keep writing fun and forward-moving.
Celebrate every milestone, big or small. Remind yourself why you started writing and trust the process, knowing that every word brings you closer to your goal. Be patient with yourself, and stay confident that you’re making progress, no matter how gradual it may seem. By combining focus, flexibility, consistency, and self-compassion, you’ll create a writing environment that fosters creativity and helps you achieve your goals.
I hope these tips will help you. Good luck!
Khairat Bello
Copywriter and content writer
5
Answers
Osogbo, Osun, Nigeria
Updated
Khairat’s Answer
It’s great that you’re working on three novels! It sounds like you have a lot of creative energy, but sometimes that can be both a blessing and a curse, especially when dealing with writer’s block or juggling too many ideas at once.
Here are some tips that might help you push through writer’s block and manage the flow of ideas:
1. Focus on One Project at a Time (Sort Of)
Set clear goals: Pick one novel to focus on at a time (even if it’s just for a short period like a week). This doesn’t mean you have to drop the others completely but create a dedicated writing time for one project. Once you hit a milestone, you can switch to the next.
Have an idea notebook or document: Keep a separate place where you jot down any new novel ideas, character concepts, or scenes that pop into your head. This lets you capture inspiration without losing track of your current focus.
2. Break Down the Work into Manageable Steps
Smaller tasks: Instead of thinking about the whole novel, break it down into smaller chunks (e.g., a scene, a chapter, or even just one character’s arc). This makes the task feel less daunting and helps you focus on manageable goals.
Character Sheets First: If character sheets are overwhelming, just start by noting down one or two key traits or motivations for each major character. You don’t have to have everything figured out before writing. Many writers develop characters more deeply as they write.
3. Combat Writer’s Block
Freewriting: Set a timer for 10-15 minutes and write without worrying about quality or coherence. This can help loosen up the creative muscles and get words flowing. You might be surprised at what comes out when you're not self-editing in the moment.
Change Your Environment: Sometimes a change of scenery can spark creativity. Try writing in a different room, a coffee shop, or even outside.
Write Scenes Out of Order: If you're stuck in the middle of a plot, try jumping ahead to a scene you’re excited to write. You can always fill in the gaps later.
4. Embrace the Imperfection of First Drafts
Don’t worry about perfection: A first draft is just that—a draft. The goal is to get the ideas down on paper, not to write the final product. You can always revise later.
Write messy: Let the characters take you to unexpected places. If you’re forcing yourself to follow a strict outline or plot, it might make the writing process feel stifling. Allow for flexibility and spontaneity.
5. Build a Writing Habit
Set a routine: Writing consistently, even if it’s just for 15-30 minutes a day, can help you build momentum and make progress. Some days will be better than others, but consistency helps break through blocks.
Track progress: Use word count goals, daily writing streaks, or even checklists. Celebrating small victories, like finishing a chapter, can motivate you to keep going.
6. Join a Writing Community or Share with Someone
Feedback and encouragement: Sharing your work with other writers can give you fresh perspectives and keep you motivated. Whether it’s a critique group, a friend, or an online writing community, getting feedback can help you feel connected and less isolated in the process.
7. Allow Time for Inspiration
Let ideas marinate: If you're stuck or overwhelmed with too many ideas, sometimes just stepping back and giving your mind space to breathe will bring new clarity. Take walks, read, or do something unrelated to writing for a while. Inspiration often strikes when you're not actively looking for it.
8. Have Fun with Fan Fiction (for Now)
If your fan fiction project is fun, let it be your creative outlet for moments when you’re feeling stuck with the more serious work. Writing fan fiction can be a great way to keep the creative juices flowing without the pressure of developing original characters or plot lines from scratch.
Let me know if you’d like my help with anything else.
Here are some tips that might help you push through writer’s block and manage the flow of ideas:
1. Focus on One Project at a Time (Sort Of)
Set clear goals: Pick one novel to focus on at a time (even if it’s just for a short period like a week). This doesn’t mean you have to drop the others completely but create a dedicated writing time for one project. Once you hit a milestone, you can switch to the next.
Have an idea notebook or document: Keep a separate place where you jot down any new novel ideas, character concepts, or scenes that pop into your head. This lets you capture inspiration without losing track of your current focus.
2. Break Down the Work into Manageable Steps
Smaller tasks: Instead of thinking about the whole novel, break it down into smaller chunks (e.g., a scene, a chapter, or even just one character’s arc). This makes the task feel less daunting and helps you focus on manageable goals.
Character Sheets First: If character sheets are overwhelming, just start by noting down one or two key traits or motivations for each major character. You don’t have to have everything figured out before writing. Many writers develop characters more deeply as they write.
3. Combat Writer’s Block
Freewriting: Set a timer for 10-15 minutes and write without worrying about quality or coherence. This can help loosen up the creative muscles and get words flowing. You might be surprised at what comes out when you're not self-editing in the moment.
Change Your Environment: Sometimes a change of scenery can spark creativity. Try writing in a different room, a coffee shop, or even outside.
Write Scenes Out of Order: If you're stuck in the middle of a plot, try jumping ahead to a scene you’re excited to write. You can always fill in the gaps later.
4. Embrace the Imperfection of First Drafts
Don’t worry about perfection: A first draft is just that—a draft. The goal is to get the ideas down on paper, not to write the final product. You can always revise later.
Write messy: Let the characters take you to unexpected places. If you’re forcing yourself to follow a strict outline or plot, it might make the writing process feel stifling. Allow for flexibility and spontaneity.
5. Build a Writing Habit
Set a routine: Writing consistently, even if it’s just for 15-30 minutes a day, can help you build momentum and make progress. Some days will be better than others, but consistency helps break through blocks.
Track progress: Use word count goals, daily writing streaks, or even checklists. Celebrating small victories, like finishing a chapter, can motivate you to keep going.
6. Join a Writing Community or Share with Someone
Feedback and encouragement: Sharing your work with other writers can give you fresh perspectives and keep you motivated. Whether it’s a critique group, a friend, or an online writing community, getting feedback can help you feel connected and less isolated in the process.
7. Allow Time for Inspiration
Let ideas marinate: If you're stuck or overwhelmed with too many ideas, sometimes just stepping back and giving your mind space to breathe will bring new clarity. Take walks, read, or do something unrelated to writing for a while. Inspiration often strikes when you're not actively looking for it.
8. Have Fun with Fan Fiction (for Now)
If your fan fiction project is fun, let it be your creative outlet for moments when you’re feeling stuck with the more serious work. Writing fan fiction can be a great way to keep the creative juices flowing without the pressure of developing original characters or plot lines from scratch.
Let me know if you’d like my help with anything else.
Fernando Iriarte
Freelance Writer & Editor
155
Answers
Puerto Rico
Updated
Fernando’s Answer
Don't treat your fan fiction as not counting. Writing is writing, and every bit helps to further refine your skills. Now, when it comes to writer's block usually it's good to take a step back and let yourself breathe. Re-read what you've written up to that point and go through some of the ideas you brainstormed, or even the plot beats you have in mind for the story. Don't try to force your way through a writer's block. As that can lead to burnout or treating the story you're working on like an obligation, rather than a piece of art.
On the other side if you have long list of ideas for other stories, while still working on existing pieces. Look to see how you can incorporate some of those ideas into existing stories. Not every idea has to make it in, but this can also help to work around writer's block.
On the other side if you have long list of ideas for other stories, while still working on existing pieces. Look to see how you can incorporate some of those ideas into existing stories. Not every idea has to make it in, but this can also help to work around writer's block.
Ratika Mishra
Senior Content Strategist
9
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Ratika’s Answer
To make your writing better and will help with writer's block or multiple ideas floating, I suggest writing every day. Journal all your ideas and then read them to decide which one is the best. Next is to read more and write more. Write at least 500 words a day, even if it is just the word "writ,e" but do write every day. Writing everyday becomes a discipline and then, helps you to get better at writing. Reading everyday is what helps you in ideate in what you want to write next.
Tom Foster
Freelance Writer with a lot of life experience
63
Answers
Forest Grove, Oregon
Updated
Tom’s Answer
Everyone here is giving great advice, but it's up to you to capture those ideas and flesh them out. Chances are that things will change once you get to each idea, so be flexible and learn how to see things from various perspectives. My first novel was meant to be a standalone story, but years later I've written 17 novels from that one idea plus several trilogies and a couple of anthologies.
Just let the road take you where it will in terms of your stories and enjoy the ride. And, as always...
Just write.
Just let the road take you where it will in terms of your stories and enjoy the ride. And, as always...
Just write.
Troy Dyer
3
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Troy’s Answer
Rewriting and editing endlessly...never rush, take a year and then some if
neseccarary
neseccarary