Top Ten Tools for Writing Humor

[Jean Riva]

I ran across this article titled Top Ten Tools for Writing Humor by Dave Leonhardt. It surprised me that I instinctively already use about four or five of these tools/tips when I try to write humor. Which of these tools do you see in your own writing?

Click here to read the article.

[jcorn]

Well, at about 4 am, reading this, I only recognize one tool I use. But I might see more tomorrow. Very interesting article, though :)

[theBarefoot]

For the most part, dead on.

[Chris M.C.]

This was a fun read. Thanks for posting it

[Frank Mucci]

I have used many of the points suggested in this article, but I particularly enjoy mocking public figures.

[Will Wright]

Good article! I use the 'building from a ridiculous premise' tool the most. As good as the article is, I felt the author's humor pieces were a bit of a let down.

Best advice I ever heard about comedy went something like this: good comedy isn't someone who is funny opening a door -- it's someone who opens a door funny.

I think it's the same with writing humor. Humor doesn't come from funny writing -- it comes from writing funny.

[Jean Riva]

Will, that's an interesting distinction---the best advice you heard on writing comedy. I like that.

[Will Wright]

Thanks! I wish I remember who said that!