Working Up

by Dwayne Phillips

I have been using a new writing technique lately in which I set a timer for uninterrupted writing, followed by a five-minute break, followed by another timed writing period.

There are countless writing techniques. My advice for these techniques:

Try the technique. If if works for you, use it. Otherwise, forget it.

I attach an addendum to this:

A technique may work for a while for a particular type of writing.

I have been using a technique lately that works for me. The technique:

1. write 25 minutes without interruption
2. take a 5-minute break
3. write 25 minutes without interruption
4. take a break for several hours

I use my iPhone as a timer. Important note: once I start the timer, I put it where I cannot see it. If the countdown is viewable, I am distracted by it.

During the 5-minute break, I walk away from the writing table. I usually stretch my hands, arms, and back.

Step 4 is optional depending on what I have planned for the day. Sometimes I do steps 1., 2., 3., 2., 3., etc. for several hours.

Results: I write about 30% more content during the hour in steps 1. through 3. than when I wrote for one hour solid. I leave the explanation for the increased output to someone else.