Writing exercises have been part of my creative life since I was in high school. I still remember the first one a teacher introduced me to—it was simple, unstructured, and eye-opening. Since then, I’ve leaned on exercises not just to spark creativity, but to refine my skills and help me transition into more focused writing sessions.
They’re my version of a warmup stretch before a long run. Even when I’m not working on a specific project, I try to do at least one writing exercise a day. It keeps my creative mind agile and curious.
Here are five of my favorite exercises. They are the ones I return to all the time, especially when I am unsure of what to write.
Choose a Word
This exercise is like drawing a writing prompt from a hat, because that’s literally what I do. I cut a sheet of paper into small pieces and write a single word on each—anything from “untying” to “peach,” “amber,” “library,” or even names like “Catherine” or “Diego.” I fold the papers and drop them into a container.
When I want to start a writing session, I reach in, pull out a word, and write whatever that word inspires. Sometimes it’s a memory, other times it’s a completely made-up scene. This randomness removes pressure and helps me break through overthinking.
Free Write
This was my first writing exercise, and it remains a staple. I set a timer for 10 or 15 minutes and write nonstop. No edits. No worrying about grammar. I just go.
The beauty of free writing is that it gets me out of my head. It lets me bypass the inner critic and just explore. Sometimes I end up with absolute nonsense. Other times, I strike gold—a new idea, a compelling sentence, or a surprising perspective I hadn’t considered.
In the Present
This one’s all about the senses and grounding myself in the now. I set a timer for 10-15 minutes and write entirely in the present tense. I focus on what I hear, see, feel, smell, and even taste.
For example: The air purifier hums behind me. The vanilla candle is lit, but my Dior perfume still lingers stronger in the air. The blanket on my lap is warm but slightly itchy against my skin.
This exercise sharpens descriptive language and brings me into a state of awareness. It also deepens my ability to show rather than tell.
Write a Scene with a Twist
Sometimes I prompt myself to write a simple scene, such as two people arguing, a child lost in a crowd, a person waiting at the airport. The twist is that I add one unexpected twist. Maybe one character has a secret. Maybe time suddenly freezes. This keeps me playful and teaches me how to balance realism with imagination. This is a fun one because I can really use my imagination.
Borrow a Line
I find a favorite line from a book or poem and use it as my first sentence. From there, I write my own story. In other words, the line is a jumping off point. It’s a powerful reminder that writing doesn’t exist in a vacuum—our voices are often sparked by others. It’s also interesting to see where things lead!
These exercises serve many purposes. They can help boost your creativity and productivity. They can also help you become a better writer. They’re about presence, play, and practice. They keep my creative well full—even on days when inspiration feels far away.