If you’re a new writer or aspiring author reading this, you’re probably staring at a half-finished manuscript wondering if you’ll ever type “The End.” Maybe you started strong, blazed through the first few chapters, and then hit a wall so solid you’re convinced it’s made of literary concrete.

But never fear; getting stuck on your first draft isn’t a sign that you’re not cut out for this writing thing. It’s actually one of the most normal parts of the creative writing process. The problem isn’t ...