The sitcom writer and director joined us to talk about his hilarious show. Here's how he answered your questions The live session is now over

The fourth series of The IT Crowd has been another delight. We've watched Roy keep a girlfriend for more than one episode. Moss has joined a secret society of Countdown winners. And Jen has continued her doomed efforts to climb the corporate ladder. Perhaps if she spoke better Italian...

Graham Linehan, the creator, writer and director, has announced there will be a fifth season – and next time he'll have a US-style writing team to help him craft the script. But what will this mean for the direction of the show?

Here's a summary of how he answered that question and your many others. Click the links to see his full replies:

How about a cameo from Robert Pollard?

We can but dream.

Does "a US-style writing team" mean more episodes in the new series like a US season?

Probably not.

Will there be a US version of The IT Crowd?

They're working on one at the moment.

Are there any American sitcoms you admire and draw inspiration from?

Seinfeld is a direct influence.

How do you make scripts work?

Six tips here.

Was the V for Vendetta mask to the left of Roy a conscious inclusion? Are you aware of its connotations?

Very conscious inclusion.

What are your rules for plotting?

I like to have a big setpiece moment lined up for every character.

I collect ideas and transfer them to cards.

The IT crowd is a "classic" sitcom – would you consider moving away from this format?

Absolutely. But I lean towards bigger, sillier stuff, and that seems to suit the studio audience style better.

How will the writing team work?

I'm doing it online.

Which IT Crowd episodes do you consider the strongest?

Answer.

What kind of things might cause a last-minute change to the writing process?

Answer.

How do I get audience tickets?

These guys.

Was tonight's scene with Douglas playing with a ball, and Jen in a jumper, a reference to A Few Good Men?

Bloody hell! Yes! We didn't think anyone would spot that.

How many ideas cards do you have at a time?

As many as possible.

How do you come up with names?

I suck at it.

Are writers ever involved in choosing the actors?

Depends. I always get involved in the casting.

Do you like role-playing games?

I played Dungeons and Dragons when younger, of course ...

How important is plot?

I'm aiming for a marriage of incident and character. Gags are ten a penny, situations are gold.

What makes a good comedy producer?

I don't know but Richard Boden has it in spades.

What advice can you give a budding writer?

Write and keep writing. And finish the thing.