Overcoming Writer’s Block

Ever wondered how to get started on a grant application? You’ve decided that the granting program is a good match for your organization, and you may have even spoken to the funder, but you’re unsure how to begin answering the application questions. Here are a couple of tips to help you get past that grant writers block: 

• Read the Question. As simple as it sounds, it’s actually harder than it looks. Really read the question. Look at each word. Break the question down into phrases if there are many ‘commas’ in the question. Too often we skim the question, and interpret it the way we think it should mean. But really, funders just want you to answer the question that is there. 

• Use bullet points. Don’t begin writing your answers in full sentence form. This is not only an overwhelming way to start but it makes it harder to create well-organized and well-supported arguments. Try writing your answers in point form under each application question. Using bullet points will allow you to look clearly at the question and organize your response in a coherent manner. 

• Do your homework. Some application questions require more research than others. While you may know your own organizational details, you still need to identify and document the need for your project. Using quantitative (i.e. statistics) or qualitative (such as stories or client testimonials) data in a persuasive manner will better support your arguments. 

• Pull it all together. Once  your  ideas are set out in bullet point form, and you have found your supporting  data, the ‘flow’ of your writing will be clearer -  and writing full text becomes much easier.