Before I proceed, here is a quick video from ThisisKaila on How To Meet Writing Deadlines. 

Video Credit: ThisisKaila via Youtube

For some people, writing is a hard thing to do. Words do not come easy, and you have a lot of ideas, but you can't just put them into words. Also, some people don't want to spend time and effort in writing. But what if you don't have any choice? You need to write an article for your school or work, and it is due tomorrow or the next day, or the day after tomorrow? Before you panic, read on. 

How to Write Under a Deadline 

When you hear the word deadline, you tend to have cold feet. But fret not. Here are some tips to help you write under a deadline. 

• Set clear expectations 

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The first thing you need to do when you are assigned to write an article for school or work is to set clear expectations ahead of you. Clear expectation allows you to focus, enhance your performance, set your priorities, and attain your goals. Make sure you understand the purpose of your writing, who are you writing for, how long it should be, etc. Have an open communication with your editor and don't be afraid to ask questions. 

• Write down your ideas 

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Get a piece of paper and pen and write down all of your ideas as ideas don't last long in your head. By doing this, you will be more focused, and you will have some sense of direction. Now, you can step away for a while, do your research in front of the computer about the topic you are interested in writing about, without getting the ideas lost. You need this to make your regular habit when you are a writer or someone who is assigned to write for work or school project. Make sure you have a piece of paper and pen in every part of the house as it will help you remember to write down all of your ideas if you are seeing them all the time. 

• Time to clarify your ideas

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After you have written down all of your ideas, it is time to decide which ideas you will include in your writing. Also, start writing your headline. Make sure it is a good headline because it is the first thing that the reader notices and most of the time the basis if it is worth their time or not. Back it up with a strong and outstanding introduction and informational main body, and conclusion. 

•  Create a timeline

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When you are writing under a deadline, you need to create a timeline. Maybe the first part will be spent on conducting interviews. Prepare all the questions and make sure you inform your participants ahead of time. Schedule a time when they are not busy with school or work. Do it as soon as possible, so you will have ample time to write, revise and proofread your work. 

• Use the best productivity tools

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Use a voice recorder

• Use a voice recorder to conduct interviews or to record your ideas.
• Download a good voice-recorder application for your iPhone or Android mobile phones like Griffin I talk Recorder, Rev, Voice Recorder and Audio Editor and Voice Record Pro to name some. 

Evernote 

• A go-to application that is best for creating checklists, saving images, writing down notes, and even recording your voice. 
• The best part of this application is that it works with all platforms and it syncs across any personal computer or mobile phone you use. 

 Todoist

• Allows you to organize your tasks.
• You can establish a custom schedule every day.
• It reminds you of your deadlines. 

• Stay focused

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Writing under a deadline requires laser focus. Put your mobile phone on silent mode. Stay away from your social media accounts. Don't turn your television or radio on.  And as much as possible, work in a quiet and stress-free environment. Use distraction-free application on your personal computers such as Hemingway Editor, Ommwriter Dana, Ulysses, and Writer. 

• Don't feel pressured

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Be confident in what you are doing. Believe in yourself that you can finish what you are writing on time. It will help you alleviate the panic and pressure you are feeling. Divide your tasks. Start with a smaller step by writing a few sentences without having cold feet. But don't forget to check your time. Measure how much time is available in accomplishing the headline, introduction, main body, and conclusion. 

• Take a short break 

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Write for an hour or two in the morning and take a 15-minute break. Try to relax by doing deep breathing exercises. Or go outside to get some fresh air while sipping a cup of your favorite coffee or tea. Make sure it is a relaxing activity so your body and mind will be replenished before going back to work. Avoid spending your short break in checking out your social media accounts on your mobile phone or personal computer. Let your eyes rest for a little while. 

• Edit your work

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Delete the unnecessary words or phrases in your paper. But don't do this while you are still writing your article, editorial, newsletter, and the likes. Edit your work once you are done writing your first draft. Schedule the editing two or three days before the deadline. 

• Review and Practice Writing 

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Thoroughly check and review your paper before submitting it. Check for any mistakes like grammar, spelling, and omit those irrelevant ideas. Keep it clear and relevant as much as possible. Also, don't forget to practice every day so you will get better and you will not panic and feel pressured anymore when you need to write under a deadline the next time. 

Before I say my final thoughts, let me share with you a video on How To Create A Writing Schedule That Helps You Hit Your Deadlines

Video Credit: Heart Breathings via Youtube

Final Thoughts

Writing under a deadline may seem a difficult task. But if you put your heart, soul and time into it, you will finish your task before the deadline, without feeling any pressure at all. 

Thank you for reading my blog post. Blessings!

Written by: freelancermariagrace for Bitlanders