10 Effective Writing Prompts to Overcome Writer's Block

Published on 20 June 2023 10 min read

Every writer experiences the dreaded writer's block at some point, and it can be incredibly frustrating. Don't worry, we've got you covered! In this blog, you'll find 10 effective writing prompts to help you overcome writer's block and get those creative juices flowing again. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting out, these writing prompts will provide the inspiration and motivation you need to get back on track.

1. Freewriting

Freewriting is a simple but powerful technique to combat writer's block. The idea is to write non-stop for a set amount of time, usually 10-15 minutes, without worrying about grammar, spelling, or punctuation. The goal is to let your thoughts flow freely and not to overthink or edit as you go. Here's how to use freewriting as a writing prompt:

Set a timer for your chosen length of time.
Begin writing without stopping, even if you're just typing "I don't know what to write" repeatedly.
Allow your mind to wander and explore any topic that comes to mind.
When the timer goes off, review what you've written and look for any interesting ideas or themes that you can expand upon.

Freewriting can help you break free from the constraints of perfectionism and self-criticism, making it easier to get past writer's block and tap into your creativity. Give it a try the next time you're feeling stuck, and you might be surprised at the ideas that emerge!

2. The Prompt Jar

Sometimes, all you need to get your creative juices flowing is a little nudge in the right direction. That's where the Prompt Jar comes in! This fun and easy writing prompt technique involves creating a collection of random ideas, phrases, or words that you can draw from whenever you're feeling stuck. Here's what you need to do:

Gather materials: Find a jar or container, some small pieces of paper, and a pen.
Brainstorm prompts: Write down various writing prompts on the pieces of paper. These can be anything from single words and phrases to story ideas, characters, or settings. Be as creative and diverse as you'd like!
Fill the jar: Fold the paper prompts and place them in the jar.
Draw a prompt: Whenever you're experiencing writer's block, reach into the jar and pull out a random prompt.
Get writing! Use the prompt as inspiration to start writing, and see where it leads you.

The Prompt Jar is not only a great way to overcome writer's block, but it also encourages you to explore new ideas and genres that you might not have considered otherwise. Plus, it's an enjoyable activity that can help you build a valuable resource for those moments when you need a little creative boost.

3. Character Interviews

One of the most exciting parts of writing is developing intriguing, multifaceted characters that readers can connect with. A great way to dive deeper into your characters' minds and understand their motivations is to conduct a character interview. This writing prompt exercise will help you to explore your characters' thoughts, feelings, and experiences, and it can also be a fun way to break free from writer's block. Here's how to do it:

Select a character: Choose a character from your story or create a new one.
Prepare interview questions: Come up with a list of questions that you'd like to ask your character. These can range from basic background information to deeper, more personal inquiries about their thoughts and emotions.
Get into character: Imagine yourself as the character you've chosen, and answer the questions from their perspective. Try to be as honest and authentic as possible, even if it means revealing surprising or unexpected aspects of their personality.
Reflect on the answers: After completing the interview, review the responses and consider how they might impact your character's actions, decisions, and relationships within your story.

Character interviews can be an enlightening and enjoyable writing prompt that not only helps you overcome writer's block but also enriches your story by providing a deeper understanding of the individuals who inhabit your fictional world.

4. Photo Inspiration

Visual stimuli can be a powerful source of inspiration for writers, and using photos as writing prompts is an excellent way to spark your creativity and overcome writer's block. By examining a photograph, you can immerse yourself in the scene, characters, and emotions depicted, which can lead to compelling story ideas. Here's how to use photo inspiration as a writing prompt:

Choose a photo: Select an image that captures your interest. It could be a photo you've taken, an image from a magazine, or even a picture you find online (avoid using copyrighted images for publication).
Observe the details: Spend time studying the photo, paying close attention to the colors, textures, setting, and any people or objects within the image. Let your imagination run wild as you consider the story behind the scene.
Ask yourself questions: Develop a narrative by asking questions about the photo. Who are the people in it? What are they feeling or thinking? What events led up to this moment, and what will happen next?
Write a scene or story: Using your observations and the answers to your questions, craft a scene or short story based on the photo. Allow yourself to be guided by the emotions and atmosphere evoked by the image.

Photo inspiration is a versatile and engaging writing prompt that can help you tap into your creative reserves and generate captivating stories. Whether you're seeking to overcome writer's block or simply looking for a fresh perspective, this exercise offers a unique way to expand your imagination and enhance your writing skills.

5. First Line Generator

Starting a new piece of writing can be daunting, especially when you're staring at a blank page. A first line generator is a fantastic writing prompt tool that can help you overcome writer's block by providing you with an intriguing opening sentence to kickstart your creativity. Here's how to take advantage of a first line generator:

Find a generator: Search online for a "first line generator" or download a writing prompt app that features random opening lines. There are many options available, so choose one that suits your preferences.
Generate a first line: Once you've selected a generator, press the button to generate a random opening sentence. Don't worry if the line doesn't immediately resonate with you—give it a chance and see where it leads.
Let the line guide you: Use the generated first line as the starting point for your story or scene. Resist the urge to edit or rewrite the line; instead, focus on developing the narrative that follows it.
Explore different possibilities: If the first line you generate doesn't inspire you, try again. The beauty of a first line generator is that it offers endless possibilities, so keep generating lines until you find one that sparks your imagination.

Using a first line generator as a writing prompt can help you overcome the initial hurdle of beginning a new piece, allowing you to dive into your story with renewed enthusiasm. By embracing the unexpected, you can discover fresh ideas and unlock your creative potential.

6. Mind Mapping

Mind mapping is a visual brainstorming technique that can help you organize your thoughts, generate ideas, and overcome writer's block. With mind mapping, you can break down complex concepts, find connections between ideas, and discover novel ways to approach your writing prompts. Here's a step-by-step guide to creating a mind map:

Start with a central idea: Write down your main topic or theme in the center of a blank page. This could be a broad subject, a specific writing prompt, or a question you want to explore in your writing.
Branch out with subtopics: Draw lines from the central idea and create subtopics or related ideas. These subtopics can be characters, settings, plot points, or anything else that comes to mind.
Expand on your subtopics: From each subtopic, draw additional lines and jot down even more specific ideas, details, or questions. Don't be afraid to let your thoughts flow freely—the more you can expand on each idea, the more material you'll have to work with when you start writing.
Find connections and patterns: As you fill in your mind map, look for connections between your ideas. Are there themes that keep popping up? Do certain elements complement each other? Identifying these relationships can help you create a cohesive narrative from your writing prompt.
Refine and organize: Once you've exhausted your brainstorming, take a step back and review your mind map. Organize and prioritize the information, then use it as an outline to guide your writing process.

By using mind mapping as a tool to tackle writing prompts, you can unlock new story ideas, develop well-rounded characters, and explore creative plot twists. This visual brainstorming technique has the power to transform your writing process and help you conquer writer's block.

7. Writing Sprints

Writing sprints are short, focused bursts of writing that can help you overcome writer's block and make progress on your writing prompts. The idea behind writing sprints is to set a timer—usually for 15 to 30 minutes—and write as much as possible within that time frame. Here's how to get the most out of writing sprints:

Pick a writing prompt: Choose a writing prompt or topic that you want to explore. This could be a specific scene, character, or theme from your story.
Set a timer: Decide on a length of time for your writing sprint—typically between 15 and 30 minutes—and set a timer. Remember, the goal is to write quickly and without distractions, so choose a time frame that will keep you focused but won't feel overwhelming.
Write without editing: During your writing sprint, write as much as possible without stopping to edit or revise. The goal is to get your ideas down on paper, even if they're not perfect. You can always refine and polish your work later.
Take a break: Once the timer goes off, stop writing and take a short break. This could be a quick walk, a stretch, or a few deep breaths—anything to help you recharge before diving back into your writing.
Repeat as necessary: If you found the writing sprint helpful, consider doing more of them! You can even combine multiple writing prompts or focus on different aspects of your story during each sprint.

Writing sprints can be a powerful tool to overcome writer's block and make progress on your writing prompts. By setting aside dedicated time to write, you'll be able to push through mental barriers and unleash your creativity. Give it a try, and you might be surprised at how much you can accomplish in just a short amount of time!

8. Collaborative Writing

Collaborative writing is another effective way to overcome writer's block and generate fresh ideas for your writing prompts. Working with others can provide new perspectives, spark creativity, and help you break out of a writing rut. Here's how to make the most of collaborative writing:

Find a partner or group: Look for other writers who share your interests and are open to collaborating. This could be a friend, a writing group, or even an online community of fellow writers.
Choose a writing prompt: Together, decide on a writing prompt or topic that you all want to work on. This could be a specific scene, character, or theme from your story.
Divide the work: Break the writing prompt into smaller sections or tasks, and assign each person a specific part to work on. This way, everyone has a clear role and can contribute to the project.
Share and discuss: As each person completes their assigned section, share the work with the rest of the group. Discuss your thoughts, give feedback, and brainstorm ideas for improvement. Remember, the goal is to learn from each other and grow as writers.
Revise and polish: After discussing the work, revise and polish the writing together, incorporating the feedback and ideas from the group. This collaborative editing process can lead to a more cohesive and well-rounded final piece.

Collaborative writing not only helps you overcome writer's block but also strengthens your writing skills by exposing you to different styles and techniques. So, why not give it a try? Working together with other writers can be both fun and rewarding—plus, you'll be making progress on your writing prompts in no time!

9. Change of Scenery

Sometimes, all it takes to overcome writer's block and find inspiration for your writing prompts is a change of scenery. Staring at the same four walls can become monotonous and stifle your creativity. So, why not shake things up a bit by trying out these simple ideas?

Move to a different room: If you usually write in your bedroom or home office, try relocating to another room like the living room or kitchen. A new environment can help you see things from a fresh perspective.
Write outdoors: Take your writing materials outside and find a comfortable spot in a park, your backyard, or even on your balcony. The natural surroundings and fresh air can do wonders for your creativity.
Visit a public space: Head to a coffee shop, library, or coworking space to write. Being around other people and their creative energy can be inspiring and help you focus on your writing prompts.
Change your routine: If you usually write in the morning, try writing in the evening, or vice versa. Sometimes, a simple shift in your routine can lead to new ideas and a boost in motivation.

Remember, the key is to find a setting that allows you to be comfortable, focused, and inspired. So, don't be afraid to experiment with different locations and routines until you find what works best for you. After all, a change of scenery might be just what you need to get those writing prompts flowing again!

10. Flash Fiction Challenges

Flash fiction challenges are a fun and engaging way to overcome writer's block and get those creative juices flowing. These short, timed writing prompts encourage you to think quickly and write concisely, helping you to develop your storytelling skills. Here are some tips on how to make the most of flash fiction challenges:

Set a word limit: Flash fiction typically ranges from 100 to 1,000 words. Choose a word limit that challenges you, but still feels achievable. Remember, the goal is to tell a complete story within the constraints of the word count.
Use a timer: Set a timer for 10-30 minutes, depending on your comfort level. This will help you focus on the task at hand and encourage you to write without overthinking or editing as you go.
Find a prompt: There are countless writing prompts available online, specifically designed for flash fiction challenges. Choose one that sparks your interest or inspires you to think outside the box.
Embrace the challenge: Don't worry about creating a perfect piece of writing. The goal of a flash fiction challenge is to push your creativity and help you develop your storytelling skills. So, have fun with it and see where your imagination takes you!

By participating in flash fiction challenges, you'll not only improve your writing skills, but you'll also build a collection of short stories that you can share with others or use as inspiration for future writing projects. So, why not give it a try and see what amazing stories you can create from these bite-sized writing prompts?

If you're looking to improve your writing skills and explore the art of writing from memory, don't miss the workshop 'Writing From Memory - Part 1' by Charlie Brogan. This workshop will guide you through the process of writing from memory and help you unlock your creativity by tapping into your personal experiences.