Goodreads asked Vanessa Nelson:

How do you deal with writer’s block?

Vanessa Nelson I actually don't get blocked so much as I get stuck from time to time, and it's usually because I don't know what should happen next. After years of "pantsing" I am now embracing outlining, which makes things a lot easier, but even then I do occasionally come across a point where I've not thought it through.

Going back to basics here really helps - getting out a pen and paper and brainstorming where the story is at that point, where it needs to be, so what needs to happen now.

And taking a step back can really help, too. Going for a walk or doing something else for a while, and somehow my brain comes up with a solution. I always have a notebook with me, or use the notes app on my phone, so I don't lose the idea.

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