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a poorly-structured joke (or story). All of these elements are merely tools used to optimize the delivery - and thus the effectiveness - of the humor. Much of the ability to be funny relies simply on learning how to structure the material.

3. Delivery:
There are many overused phrases like, "timing is everything," and, "some people can tell a joke, and some people can't." These are only half true.

Anyone can learn to be funny with enough time and practice. Of course, some people are more naturally gifted in this area than others, just as with any other talent. The trick is not to simply memorize a bunch of jokes: delivery is essential for a joke to be effective. But some jokes are easier to deliver properly than others.
For instance: if a joke depends on mimicking a cartoon character's voice, and you cannot do that very well, then the joke probably won't 'play' very well. It would be better to learn jokes that are more "bulletproof". Try it out alone first until you are comfortable with it and have the structure memorized.
If you have trouble speaking to people generally, good ways to improve your speaking skills are to take a speech class in school, or to join Toastmaster's International (only if you are over 18). Remember: being a good speaker is an indispensible life skill, both personally and professionally.

So, if you want to be funny (or funnier):
1. Use this article as a basic guide.
2. *Study* anything you find funny: analyze it; disect it.
3. Start simply: practice in a 'safe' situation and build your skills gradually, so you don't become discouraged.
4. Give yourself time: this is (usually) a long-term process.
5. Remember the importance of structure! Understanding structure is the difference between 'being' funny and knowing some funny stories.
6. Keep it simple: sometimes the funniest things are as simple as a glance, or only a word or two - well-chosen and well-delivered.

Need examples? Check out http://www.littlefivers.com/ - weekly lists in a variety of categories. Hey, I'M there!

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