Scott Dikkers: 11 Ways to Make Your Writing More Funny | How I Write

Comedy writing relies on a structured, repeatable process rather than innate, mysterious talent. Scott Dikkers, former editor-in-chief of *The Onion*, demystifies humor by identifying 11 "funny filters"—including irony, hyperbole, and madcap—that transform simple observations into professional-grade comedy. Success in short-form humor requires a rigorous editorial process, where writers generate hundreds of ideas to select a few high-quality concepts. Effective satire balances accessibility with subtext, often utilizing a "straight person" to anchor absurd premises. Writers must oscillate between "clown brain," which generates uninhibited ideas, and "editor brain," which critically refines them. Ultimately, mastering comedy is a volume game; writing frequently allows creators to move beyond clichés and develop a unique, observational perspective that resonates with audiences by highlighting the inherent absurdities of everyday life.