Back to basics: becoming a comedy writer

Many people dream of becoming a full-time comedy writer - and, if you're reading this, it's pretty likely you do, too.

Writing, particularly comedy writing, is one of those professions that seems both ephemeral and inaccessible - yet, in practice, anyone with the talent (not-to-mention the determination and resilience) can do it.

Literally anybody can become a writer: you don't need any particular qualifications, and you don't need to come from any particular background. Indeed, there are numerous schemes in place to ensure writers from all backgrounds have a route into the industry.

Of course, we cannot guarantee that you...