---
title: "Do you read comedy books while you're writing new material, | Tough Crowd"
description: "I like craft books, but if I read one while I’m halfway through a new bit I start seeing rules everywhere and the writing gets stiff. I’m wondering if they’re m"
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# Do you read comedy books while you're writing new material, or between drafts?

L

[LeedsOneLiner](/banter/Stand-Up-Comedians/LeedsOneLiner) 28 Aug 

I like craft books, but if I read one while I’m halfway through a new bit I start seeing rules everywhere and the writing gets stiff. I’m wondering if they’re more useful between writing spells — read, nick one useful principle, then shut the book and go back to your own stuff. Do you use comedy books alongside material you’re actively writing, or keep the two separate?

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