Toward a theory on programmer’s block inspired by writer’s block

Context Programmer’s block, akin to writer’s block, is a phenomenon where capable programmers struggle to create code. Despite anecdotal evidence, no scientific studies have explored the relationship between programmer’s block and writer’s block. Objective The primary objective of this study is to study the presence of blocks during programming and their potential causes. Method We conducted semi-structured interviews with experienced programmers to capture their processes, the problems they face, and potential causes. Subsequently, we analyzed the responses through the lens of writing. Results We found that among the programmer’s problems during programming, several display strong similarities to writer’s block. Moreover, when investigating possible causes of such blocks, we found a strong relationship between programming and writing activities as well as typical writing strategies employed by programmers. Conclusions Strong similarities between programming and writing challenges, processes, and strategies confirm the existence of programmer’s block with similar causes to writer’s block. Thus, strategies from writing used to resolve blocks should be applicable in programming, helping developers to overcome phases of being stuck. Research at the intersection of both areas could lead to productivity gains through reduced developer downtimes.