Don't worry if it's messy; just write!

Do you have writers' block? Did you choose a topic or idea to develop, but now you find yourself stuck? Try freewriting! This exercise is used by writers to gather their thoughts and ideas before they begin a document, with the result being an endless, non-punctuated, and free-flowing paragraph that'll be immensely helpful in the preliminary writing process.

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[edit] Steps

Set a timer or use the clock on your computer screen. Give yourself 5 to 10 minutes to continuously write. This is so you don't worry about the time.
Select a topic for your freewriting. If you've chosen to do focused freewriting, write this topic at the top of your page. If you just wish to write without a topic, go ahead without one.
Start your timer.
Write down whatever comes to mind. It can be in relation to your topic if you have one or if you are doing unfocused freewriting because you are trying to come up with an idea or topic, just write down every random thought that crosses your mind as quickly as possible.
Continue writing until the designated time has run out. Do not stop until that point.
- Do not pay attention to grammar or typos.
- If there are any incomplete sentences or misspelled words, don't worry. Just keep going.
- If you run into a dead end or draw a blank, keep writing the same word or phrase over and over again until something else pops into your mind.
- When the time has run out, look over what you have written and circle or underline ideas that you like or that you think might be useful for your project.
Group your marked ideas and phrases and decide where they lead you in your writing process.
Begin your rough draft. If you have enough to start your paper or document, then begin working on your rough draft. If you do not have enough ideas, try another informal invention technique such as brainstorming or mapping.

[edit] Tips

A good way to avoid wanting to edit freewriting is to turn off your computer screen so that you cannot see the words that are being typed.
A countdown timer with an alarm may be better than just a clock as it will save you from constantly looking at it.
Use relaxing music to help your mind relax itself.
If you are having a hard time at the start then use your senses, simply write what you are feeling directly through your senses: Is it hot or cold or maybe you are hungry or tired, whatever you are feeling just write it and then the rest will come to you.
Make sure that you write something and anything every day.
Read a lot.
Read different genres of books; not just what you plan on writing about.