What is a Writing Sprint?
A writing sprint usually refers to when you write in small bursts after setting a timer for a set period. Typically, anywhere from five to twenty-five minutes. Sometimes more.
If you’ve ever heard of the Pomodoro Technique, it’s a similar concept. You set a timer for twenty-five minutes and write until the timer goes off. No editing, no backspaces, no distractions, none of that. Just you, your timer, and the blank-page we all know and love.
Writing sprints, however, don’t have to follow the typical twenty-five minute rule that’s usually seen with the Pomodoro. But like with the Pomodoro, you want to take breaks in-between writing sprints. From what I’ve seen, most people take breaks anywhere from five to fifteen minutes.
The Pomodoro Technique has a few other rules to note, so look it up if you it’s something that interests you.
Writing sprints themselves, on the other-hand, don’t really have rules (as far as I know) other than writing for a “short” period then taking a quick break in-between sprints. Define what “short” looks like to you.
Fun Fact #1: Pomodoro is the Italian word for tomato. And a guy named Francesco Cirillo developed the Pomodoro Technique. Apparently he named it after a tomato-shaped kitchen timer he used while at university.
How I Use Writing Sprints
Once I’m settled in for some writing time, I like to open up a timer app (I’ve been using Howler Timer on my Mac, and absolutely love it). I set it for twenty-one minutes. (I use the extra minute for what I like to call “buffer” time. You know, to shake any mental cobwebs out, lol). Then I like to play some rain and thunderstorms on low volume to help me get into a creative mindset. And then officially start the timer.
It’s time to get some writing done. Time for a writing sprint.
I don’t always write in twenty-one minute sprints, however; Twenty-one is my sweet spot for most of my writing sessions. If I’m running short on time, for whatever reason, I’ll aim for a minimum of a ten-minute sprint. When I was first starting out, I wrote in five-minute sprints. So don’t worry if you feel you’re not writing enough. Just start somewhere to get the ball rolling. The words will come, eventually.
Fun Fact #2: I’m actually writing this post using writing sprints. (Just seemed appropriate, lol).
I’ve been using writing sprints to get a sizeable chunk of my writing done for the past several years. And I can tell you they’ve absolutely helped me put words onto the page.
The best part?
It helps even if I’m running short on time. It doesn’t really matter whether I choose to write for five minutes or five hours. Whether I choose to do one short writing sprint, several dozen, or a few longer sprints. They help regardless.
It’s important to remember to take a break once your timer goes off. But really, it’s something you just have to get the feel for. If you’re in a state of flow, then by all means keep writing. It’s up to you whether you want to keep writing after the timer goes off or to stop mid-sentence. Whatever works best and feels right to you is what I’d recommend above all else.
Why Bother With Writing Sprints?
I find writing sprints useful for anytime I want to get some writing done, but they’re especially useful when you are having a hard time just getting started. It’s the simplicity that is key. The simpler the better, in my humble opinion.
Set a timer. Anywhere from five minutes to an hour, if you choose. Then just sit down and make words. Or at the very least, give yourself the time to make words. Even if the actual writing might seem like a challenge.
If the thought of writing for long stretches of time isn’t up your alley, then writing sprints might help.
In fact, as I write these words, my lovely little Howler Timer is about to go off in… three… two… one. Time for a break!
Fun Fact #3: Yes, my howler timer actually howls when the time runs out. It’s actually pretty cool! Who’s ready for Halloween?
Short Sprints vs. Long Sprints
It really doesn’t matter whether you choose to do a long sprint or a short one. What matters is that you do what feels right to you. Because if it feels right, you’ll be more likely to do it and your writing will be better off because of it.
Some may find that ten minutes is long enough. Cool.
Others may find that setting a timer for thirty or even forty minutes works best. Awesome.
Me?
I usually aim for twenty-minute sprints. That’s my sweet spot. (Plus, one extra for that “buffer” time I mentioned). If for whatever reason I only make time for a ten-minute sprint, then so be it. Again, do what works for you and your unique situation.
Give it a Try
Give yourself time to get used to it. You’ll find that after a while, it just gets easier and eventually it will become second-nature to you. If the thought of writing for hours overwhelms you and would rather break it up into small chunks, try doing a writing sprint or two (or ten). And see how much writing you get done 😉
Jeff Aybar is a writer, Sci-Fi/Fantasy nerd, INFJ, veteran, and all-around creative. You can get a free copy of his guide for writers and other creatives on starting the creative journey by signing up to his newsletter HERE.