Hands-on Solution for Writer’s Block

January 19, 2012

The hands-on solution to writer’s block (and other forms of writing resistance) is to literally get your hands on. Step away from the keyboard and pick up a pen.

According to Sharon Begley’s “Buff Your Brain” article in Newsweek, “Brain scans show that handwriting engages more sections of the brain than typing.”

These aren’t just any old sections of the brain being activated when you wield a pen; they’re sections vital to writing. Virginia Berninger, professor of educational psychology at the University of Washington, refers to brain scans that show “sequential finger movements activated massive regions involved in thinking, language and working memory.”

And no, using a keyboard isn’t the same as writing by hand. Berninger points out that a keyboard allows you to select a whole letter with one touch, but handwriting “requires executing sequential strokes to form each letter.” It’s the sequential finger movements that engage your brain.

After you defrost the brain freeze of writing resistance, the keyboard can be your best friend again. But before you rush back to your computer, remember that many writers write their first drafts in longhand, including JK Rowling, Stephen, King, Neil Gaiman and Tracy Chevalier.

When it comes to getting your brain engaged and your creativity flowing, the pen is mightier than the keyboard!


Please Vote!

October 10, 2011

Which do you think is more intriguing?

I want your opinion. My upcoming book, Around the Writer’s Block: Using Brain Science to Solve Writer’s Resistance, will include sections that show how relevant and useful it is for writers to understand the brain and neuroscience research. The information in these sections is tailored for readers who are writers like you, not scientists.

I had titled these sections “Brain Factoids” because I wanted them to sound light and accessible (not too academic). But my editor said that, to her, “factoid” implied optional reading and that’s definitely not what these sections are.

So I need a replacement for “Brain Factoid” and I’d appreciate your perspective. Please vote!


Follow

Get every new post delivered to your Inbox.

Join 101 other followers