Comedy is one of the most direct paths from obscurity to fame. Stand-up comedians start with nothing but a microphone and five minutes of material, and the best of them build careers that lead to specials, podcasts, television, and film. Comedy also rewards persistence more than almost any other art form, because the only way to get funnier is to perform again and again in front of real audiences.
This guide explains how to become a comedian, from writing your first jokes to landing paid gigs.
Types of Comedy Careers
- Stand-up comedy: solo performance of original material in clubs, bars, and theaters.
- Improv: unscripted scenes created on the spot, usually in teams.
- Sketch comedy: written and rehearsed scenes performed live or on video.
- Comedy writing: writing for late-night shows, sitcoms, animation, and other comedians.
- Online comedy: sketches, characters, and commentary on TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram.
Many comedians do several of these at once. Stand-up is the most common starting point because you can begin tonight.
Write Your First Set
Comedy starts with writing. Most beginning comedians keep a notebook or phone note of observations, frustrations, and odd moments from daily life, then turn the strongest ideas into jokes.
- Write about what you know: your family, job, school, relationships, and point of view.
- Learn the basic structure: a setup that creates an expectation and a punchline that surprises.
- Cut ruthlessly. Fewer words usually means bigger laughs.
- Write every day. Volume produces the jokes that eventually work.
Your first set will probably be three to five minutes long. That is all most open mics allow.
Perform at Open Mics
Open mics are where comedians are made. They are usually free or cheap to perform at, and they are full of other comedians working on new material. To get the most out of them:
- Go every week, or more. Stage time is the single biggest factor in improvement.
- Record every set. Listen back to hear which lines got laughs and where you rushed.
- Respect the light. When the host signals your time is up, finish your joke and get off stage.
- Support other comics. The comedy scene is small, and the people at your open mic are your future network.
Expect to bomb. Every successful comedian has. The difference is that they came back the next night.
Take Classes
Classes are not required, but they speed up the learning curve. Improv theaters and comedy clubs in many cities offer stand-up, improv, and sketch writing classes. Improv training in particular helps comedians stay loose and handle the unexpected on stage.
Move Up From Open Mics
As your material gets stronger, look for:
- Booked showcases and bringer shows at local clubs. (Bringer shows require you to bring paying audience members; use them sparingly.)
- Hosting opportunities, since a good host is valuable to any show.
- Guest spots and opening slots for touring comedians.
- Comedy festivals and competitions, which often have submission fees and video requirements.
Build an Online Audience
Many comedians are now discovered online. Post your best stage clips, crowd work, sketches, or character bits to TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts. Starting a podcast is another common way comedians build loyal fans. See our guides to getting famous on TikTok and becoming a YouTuber.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get good at stand-up?
Comedians often say it takes years of regular stage time to find your voice. Many comics perform hundreds of open mic sets before getting paid work.
Can teens do stand-up comedy?
Yes, though many comedy clubs and bars are 18+ or 21+. Look for all-ages open mics, school talent shows, youth improv programs, and community theater, and bring a parent or guardian.
Do comedians write their own jokes?
Stand-up comedians are expected to write their own material. Using another comedian’s jokes is one of the fastest ways to lose credibility in the comedy community.
Funny? Prove it. Tell us why you wanna be famous.