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We asked 11 comedians how to be funny

Bruce DessauApr 19, 2015 Writing comedy is not easy – which is why next weekend, aspiring comedy writers will be gathering in Llandudno, north Wales, for the second annual Craft of Comedy Writing Conference. There, commissioning editors, producers, production company bosses and comedians will be divulging their trade secrets in a range of talks, discussions and networking sessions. It’s a great way to learn more about the industry – although it does cost £60. For a cheaper option, we have asked some the biggest names in comedy for their pithiest writing tips. Here is what they said:

Andy Hamilton Sitcom writer

His new series ‘Ballot Monkeys’, a satirical sitcom set around the General Election, starts on C4, Tuesday at 10pm.1) Become a ruthless editor of your own stuff. You have to be brutal. 2) Learn to be concise. Pay attention to the rhythm of a sentence and how a joke unfolds. Just moving an adverb can change it. I’m still learning. 3) Make sure you invest in a character. Anyone can write jokes. Well, almost anyone. But if you are writing a sitcom it’s the characters that make it interesting. They have to resonate. Keep reading...Show less

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