• Initial Introduction Template:  “Hi, my name is (insert your name here).  I wanted to stop by to formally introduce myself because I am enrolled in your course: (insert the course name here) and would really like to improve/learn/ask (insert your goals, reflection, and/or question here) this semester.  I really appreciated your comment in class (insert the comment here) because (insert your original thoughts on the topic here).” 

2.  Whether or not your professor is a fan of the “drop in” visit, after the introductory visit, you will find it beneficial to make an appointment to discuss a writing assignment.  You may schedule this via email, via telephone, or via a quick chat before or after the class.  Be sure to specify what days and times work best for you, and also how much time you would like to spend discussing your writing (I would suggest 15 or 30 minutes, and never more than 45 minutes at a time).  This is a courtesy to the instructor, and also ensures that you will have the time needed to work on your writing. 

3.  If appropriate, tell the professor that you will email a copy of the paper you wish to discuss in advance of the meeting. 

• In the subject line, remind the professor of your meeting time:  (Your Last Name) Writing Conference (Time) (Date)
• In the body of the email, be sure to let the professor know what specific questions you have or what parts of the paper you are struggling with.

4. When the time for your meeting comes, be punctual and prepared

• Come with two hard copies of the paper you wish to discuss (one for you and one for the professor).  If you are struggling with idea-generation, come with an attempted brainstorm or be prepared to discuss your areas of interest/confusion regarding the assignment. 
• Prepare to take notes or record the conference (be sure to ask for permission) so that you can remember the details.
• Clearly state what you hope to get out of the meeting at the beginning, and let the professor know what kind of guidance you would like to receive from him/her. 
  • Example:  “I’m here today because I’ve been struggling with the first response assignment, and I would like to receive clarification on your expectations”
  • Example:  “I’m here today because I would like to have you look at a draft of my research project.  I feel as if I am not being truly original, and I don’t know how best to go forward with this project.  It would be really helpful if you could start by reading over my thesis statement and concluding paragraphs.”

5. When your allotted time has passed, assess and plan. 

• Attempt to rephrase what you have learned from the professor during the writing conference.  If you have a misunderstanding, this is a chance for the professor to correct it. 
• If appropriate, ask the professor if he/she would help you to set a goal for the assignment and if he/she would meet with you again to go over your progress.

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1.  Spend 10-15 minutes reading the writing of someone who inspires you.  For me, that can be as simple as going to a quotation website, browsing current events, smirking at the wittiness of satire, or picking up a book by John Irving or C.S. Lewis.  Whatever your inspiration, let it occupy your mind.  Then, when you have taken that mental break and read the writing of others, you will return to your computer with increased motivation.

2.  Change your writing venue.  Enjoy a beverage at a local coffeehouse or bookstore.  Sit at a picnic table in a nearby park.  Find a secluded niche in your local library. 

3.  Write with a group of like-minded friends with whom you can share your work.  Set a specific time for socializing (and food) and a specific time for writing (try the online stopwatch to make sure you are productive).  At the end of your time together, you can even exchange computer screens or notebooks to give feedback to each other.

4.  Use a recording device to talk through your ideas.  For those who are very verbal, but struggle with getting those ideas down on paper, expressing ideas in writing can be invaluable.  When done, play it back, while typing it up.

• Tip:  Invest in a quality, portable recording device (you never know when you will have an idea) 
• I recommend the devices pictured below: 

 

 5.  Turn off your computer monitor and type without worrying about grammar, correct ideas, complete sentences, etc.  Be silly, be awkward, and write whatever enters your mind regarding your topic.  Again, set a time limit.  When time is up, turn the monitor back on and read through what you’ve written, highlighting the parts which offer possibility for your draft.  Cut and paste these parts into a new document and continue writing. 

6.  This may be obvious, but get organized and gather your resources.  Make sure you have access to all of the books, files, notes, etc. that you need and that you have a plan.  Sometimes, writer’s block comes from lack of clear planning and feeling overwhelmed with all of the details. 

7.  Indulge yourself;  buy your favorite snack and beverage.  Sometimes, page 9 of a research project looks a little less daunting with a box of junior mints at your side. 

8.  Think positively about your project, review the guidelines, and set achievable goals.  Trying to write a 20 page paper in a day may not be realistic, and if you fill your mind with negative thoughts it will show in your writing and cause you to be less productive.

9.  Your writer’s block may be caused by lack of information about the project.  Have you talked to your professor yet?  Believe it or not, most professors will be thrilled to make an appointment to talk through your ideas with you.  You will be sure to come away from this conference with renewed focus and several good ideas.

10.  Lastly, I would advise you to relax.  If you have time, distance yourself from the project for 24 hours.  Focus your energies and thoughts elsewhere and come back when you are ready.

If you are looking for more tips, be sure to check out Rachel Gardner’s post:  10 Exercises to Make You a Better Writer.