How to Write a Humor Column

Writing a humor column can be a fulfilling career choice for many writers. However, humor can be subjective. And just because you find something funny, doesn't mean an editor or a reader will. Keep your humor consistent and real, so your readers can identify with you. Read on to learn how to write a humor column.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Consider your humorous niche. Most publications will ask you to write family-friendly content, unless it is for a magazine or newspaper with a specific audience.
2. Realize that the competition for humor columnists is great. Most large syndicates have a small sampling of humor columnists for a reason. Many newspaper humor columnists are local freelancers or staff writers.
3. Over exaggerate when you're writing your column. Many times a ridiculous exaggeration can be funnier than the real thing. Just make sure it's obvious that you're exaggerating or you'll just sound plain silly.
4. Mock a current news story of a prominent individual. Be prepared for the backlash you may get from those who disagree with your opinion. You also should shy away from making fun of sensitive subjects, such as poking fun at those who have just died or something involving children or hideous crimes.
5. Give goofy names to every day things or people, such as Angie the mammo-girl for the woman named Angie who gave you your mammogram last week. Or refer to motherhood as "Mommydom."
6. Give human characteristics to things that aren't human. Refer to your breasts as "the girls," or say your cell phone screeched at you as it rang.
7. Use self-deprecating humor. People can relate to this, especially if you talk about something everyone else is afraid to admit they think or do.

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