Aardvark

Reward yourself with a 5 minute break to do what ever you want after a certain amount of work. 15 or 20 minutes say, if you work over the allowed time fine but don't break more than 5 minutes. Use a timer if you have to.

like the pomodoro system?

Thanks!

I tried that while writing my last paper, and it helped a bit. Any other techniques you know of?

I didn't know it by that name... I've withheld meals from myself and then allowed myself only bites as I accomplish certain goals. Sometimes I deprive myself of sleep and amazingly I do some of my best work that way. These are the tools of a procrastinator though. The things that I get done early start with visualization. Seeing myself doing it and enjoying doing it. Visualizing getting it done and feeling that satisfaction that comes with it. Crap like that. The hardest part is starting.

I reccommend writing a bare bones outline (bullet points at minimum) longhand before you start.

Thanks!

try a computer where you can only write. nothing else installed, no internet connection

ahh i never thought of that. that sounds like a good idea. I might try that using a custom linux live cd

Turn all electronics off and close Internet just stay focused on writing. I know it sounds hard but just try

Thanks!

I have the same problem too. Turning off the internet really helps. What I also do is to first start jotting down the outline on paper. That way I am more focussed to start with and then if I sit down at the computer, I only need to look at the paper to get back on track.

Thanks!

close all your other distractions. comedy option: use a typewriter

I actually could... There is an old one in the house

try brainstorming techniques: make yourself write without stopping for 10 minutes. Use outlines. Do previous research and plan ahead what you want to argue, notes, evidence you want to use. the more pre-planning, set-up that you do, the more writing will be more comfortable and less a chore. give yourself something comforting, coffee, tea, etc. Set yourself some time to concentrate and then take a break. Turn off internet (althought this is impossible, you're better off just having something to play with if yo're stuck...)

I highly recommend starting with a simple outline.

then you can "keep track" of where you're at. Plus, getting distracted once in a while isn't a bad thing. It helps you with creative thinking.

thanks

I would suggest disabling your internet on your computer. a 2-4 page paper should not take you longer than an hr per page (at most) so just tell yourself you can't go on facebook, or email, or any other website that is distracting you for hours. once you do 1 hour without getting distracted the 2nd is twice as easy!

thanks

try using one of those things where you can type full screen so there are no distractions like email, chat, etc. you could also try writing on paper and typing it out later

Yes I've been using a full screen text writer (it's called textroom) and it's really been helping