avatarDon Martin, real-life writer

Summary

The article discusses the concept of batching in writing, which involves grouping tasks such as idea generation, research, and writing into dedicated blocks of time to enhance productivity and maintain consistency.

Abstract

The article "Batch-Write Your Stories and Kick Writer’s Block to the Curb!" emphasizes the benefits of batching for journalists and writers. It outlines three types of batching: idea batching, where writers brainstorm story ideas in focused sessions or jot them down throughout the day; research batching, dedicating specific periods for intensive information gathering; and writing batches, setting aside time to create multiple pieces, fostering a flow state and consistent writing style. The author provides examples of batching in everyday tasks like ironing and dishwashing, underscoring its efficiency. The article also presents three reasons for adopting this approach: increased speed due to uninterrupted work, better focus, and the ability to plan and ensure continuity, which aids in future content repurposing. Finally, the author suggests a three-step process for batch writing: selecting a topic, conducting research, and writing the stories, with a nod to systems and templates for organization.

Opinions

  • The author believes that batching is an effective strategy for writers to overcome writer's block and produce content more efficiently.
  • Batching is seen as a method to streamline the writing process, making it faster and more focused.
  • The author suggests that batching allows for better continuity and planning in writing, which is beneficial for themed content and future repurposing.
  • The article implies that the author prefers using systems and templates to maintain organization in the writing process.
  • The author values efficiency and productivity in writing, advocating for no more than three items in a list to maintain clarity and focus.
  • There is an indication that the author's approach to batching can be applied to various types of writing, as demonstrated by their own publication of a 10-story batch.

Batch-Write Your Stories and Kick Writer’s Block to the Curb!

It can make your journalistic life easier!

Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash

What is batching? 3 types

  1. Idea batching is the practice of concentrating on story ideas at one central time or place. You may find it easier to sit still for ten minutes or so and come up with as many topics as you can at that time.

Or you may find it easier to carry a composition book with you during the day and write ideas as you have them in your book to expand on them later

2. Research Batching occurs when one might dedicate specific periods for intensive research sessions. This could involve gathering information, reading articles, and synthesizing findings during a concentrated block of time.

3. Writing Batches are blocks of time. Instead of writing articles or reports sporadically, a writer might set aside specific times to create multiple pieces in one session. This allows the writer to get into a flow state and maintain a consistent writing style across the batch of content.

Who does it? 3 examples

  1. Ironing clothes is something that used to be a regular part of maintaining our wardrobes. It may be done less frequently and by fewer people than previously, but other than a quick touch-up on a tie or shirt, it can be quite an undertaking, best being done at one time while the equipment is out of its storage closet.

2. Washing dishes is an activity best handled by a machine. If handled by hand, most people, other than a few nerdy types, wash them all at once, in a batch, rather than as used.

3. Writers responsible for a weekly blog, or a period of themed content, write several stories at the same time for the continuity of it.

Why do it? 3 reasons

  1. It is faster. It can be scheduled for a time that is free from interruptions or other problems and activities.

2. Since it is a more efficient use of time, it also allows for a longer and better focus on the project at hand.

3. It allows a writer to make and follow a plan, therefore allowing continuity throughout the pieces and postures the stories better for future repurposing of content.

How to do it? 3 steps

  1. Pick one original topic. 3 places to look to come up with idea

Everyday life

Diverse media, including the news

Deep dive into the particular niche

2. Research it. 3 places to research

Internet Search Engines, Dr. Google.

Online Databases and Academic Journals

Social Media and Online Communities

3. Write your stories. End of the road, for now. On to the PR game.

Last Words

I like systems and templates. And I can pick any of these numbered four here and go deeper, and make a story out of it by itself.

You may benefit from trying this one sometime.

What, Who, Why, and How works ok for me. And whenever a list is involved, I try not to have more than three in that list somehow. How many others use something similar?

Thanks for reading!

Want to read something to help you become a better writer, and not make your eyes glaze over. GO HERE. Will not cause eye trouble.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Don’s a keen observer and prolific reporter of truth, common sense, humor, & life. He’s a WRITER and humorist, sometimes serious, sometimes tongue-in-cheek. He lives in Nashville, TN. He publishes help pieces every weekday morning. Real-life Writing & Real-life Real Estate.

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