The nature of writing problems. Why professors don't write ; The phenomenology of writing problems ; Assessment of writing problems -- Strategies for the short run. Spontaneous writing ; Generative writing -- A regimen for productive and painless writing: strategies for the long run. Ensuring regular productivity ; The four-step plan -- Beyond solutions, to growth. Dealing with relapses -- Appendices. Part 1. The blocking questionnaire: an instrument for assessing writing problems ; Part 2. An annotated bibliography on blocking and other hindrances to writing.