I have a fear of writing. How can I overcome this when asked to write an essay?

Question

Whenever my teachers assign a topic to write about, i just freeze and cannot get started.

Answer 1

Take a gantt approach. Use planning\packing for a trip as an example:

1. Backpack
2. Passport
3. Cash (Local currency)
4. Cash (Foreign currency)
5. Laptop
6. Laptop Charger
7. Sunglasses
8. Sunscreen

#1 is referred to as a Groups of Tasks. a-f are referred to as Milestones or Tasks.

Milestone, a line in the sand when something was accomplished or crossed-off.

Task, a time-frame with a Start and End date. Many tasks can in some cases define a Milestone.

This gives me a method of plotting the outline of the authoring and give me the ability to add things I missed back in later. For example maybe I forgot I would need Sunscreen (g).

At this point you have the skeleton of what you are going to write. Research each Milestone\Task, Use the Tasks to set hard-stop (end date) goals of researching a specific topic or thought. You don't want to be stuck researching a particular thought forever!

Result:

I'm going on a trip to Florida. I don't have my passport yet but will be getting this by the 1st of June. This will go in my backpack (carry on) along with some cash (local), Laptop, Laptop charger, Sunglasses and Sunscreen. On arrival I will stop at the ATM and pull some additional cash (foreign).

Answer 2

First, know something about the topic. If you have to consult Google or a book, do it!! That should give you more confidence, at least.

Second, talk your ideas out--either to someone or yourself. Doing this will help you recognize what you know or don't know about the subject.

Third, write you thoughts on paper in a list. Don't worry about making an outline at this stage.

Fourth, review what you have written and do more research or thought about what may be missing on your list.

Fifth, just begin writing your thoughts in complete sentences and then you are on your way!