For some reason, this first post is causing me writer’s block. I want it to be perfect, so naturally I can’t seem to write at all! To get going, I’m going back to basics.

Overcoming writer’s block is easy if you understand drafting’s place in the writing process and have some strategies to help you get over the inevitable obstacles.

The writing process can be broken down into four manageable steps: know your purpose and audience, make a plan, draft quickly, then revise exhaustively.

Experienced writers know that writing is more than just putting perfectly formed ideas down on paper. Writing—in particular drafting—actually helps generate and clarify our thoughts. Chances are you’ll know more about what you’re trying to say when you’ve drafted it. Once you’ve clarified your thought by drafting, you can use your new, more clearly defined message to guide the revision process. Experienced writers know that a first draft can be imperfect–they don’t agonize over each sentence expecting perfect copy, as inexperienced writers do.

Even if we understand that we don’t have to marry our first draft, we all need help getting started or keeping the words flowing. Here are some strategies to get and keep you going:

• Begin with a bogus first sentence. Put down anything just to get started. You can delete the false starting sentence later.
• Begin anywhere. Start with the idea or section you are most confident with and build around it.
• Use WIRMI, which stands for What I Really Mean Is. If you get stuck in the middle of a sentence, simply abandon it and say, “What I really mean is….” Loosen up and let yourself get conversational. Remember you can revise later.
• Imagine another audience. If the thought of your intended reader intimidates you, substitute the face of a friend. You can add a more appropriate tone later, when you revise.

When we understand that writing is a process and that drafting lets us articulate our thoughts more clearly, writing becomes less intimidating and more manageable–even fun. Knowing and practicing the writing process means we can all be confident writers.