Staring at a blank Word doc? You’re not alone. Even getting started writing this blog post on, well, getting started had me hitting my brakes a few times. 😉

As a dissertation/thesis editor and coach over the past 30 years, I’ve worked with nearly two thousand student writers, many of whom hit a wall before they even type their first sentence. Writing something that guarantees your graduation is daunting. Whether it’s perfectionism, burnout, fear of failure, or just plain being overwhelmed, getting stuck is part of the process. But staying stuck? Fortunately, that’s optional.

Here are a few steps on how to break free and start writing your dissertation or thesis, even when you're in an uninspired state of mind.

1. Lower Your Personal Bar!
You don’t need to start with a well-written paragraph. In fact, you don’t even need to write a complete sentence. Start out with a note to yourself, a quote that you want to include later, or a phrase that captures what the section is supposed to do. For example: “Here I explain the gap in the literature” or "This is where I present my study methodology."

This kind of low-pressure writing gets your brain and hands working together again, a small action that helps you build momentum. Muscle memory when writing is a real thing.

2. Use a Timer, Not Your Feelings
Your motivation can be unpredictable, but a timer is reliable.

Set it for fifteen minutes. That’s it. You don’t need to finish a section or even stay on topic. Just agree with yourself to sit and try until the timer goes off. Even if you don’t wind up keeping what you write, you’ll move past that mental block that’s been holding you in place.

3. Start Somewhere Familiar
Forget about writing in order. You’re not submitting anything to your chair or professor yet, so there’s no need to start with the introduction or abstract. Instead, go to a section that feels easier for you.

Maybe you already have your research questions. Maybe there’s a source you’ve been thinking about or are excited to include. Use that familiarity as a starting point. Progress in any area is still progress.

4. Say It Before You Write It
When writing feels impossible, talk it out. Open a voice memo on your phone or computer and explain what you’re trying to say. Don’t worry about sounding formal or academic; just speak naturally.

Once you’ve talked through your ideas, you can listen back and take notes or use a transcription tool to help envision the content. Sometimes saying it out loud is all it takes to get the ideas flowing again.

5. Get Help (Yes, It’s Allowed)

You don’t have to figure this out alone. There’s nothing wrong with reaching out for guidance and inspiration, or even someone to talk you down from that place of pre-panic.

Working with an editor or coach can help you make sense of your ideas and take action. Even using tools like ChatGPT or Otter.ai can give you a starting point when your brain feels stuck. The important thing is to keep moving forward, not to do it all on your own.

Still Stuck?

I support dissertation writers who are overwhelmed, burned out, or unsure how to begin. Some are writing in a second language. Others are returning to academic work after time away. All of them want to finish well.

If you need help organizing your thoughts or getting unstuck, I’m here. Reach out today so we can get you writing again.