How Much Time Should a Comedian Be Able to Do by Their Third Year?
When you’re just starting out in comedy, the idea of filling a 10-minute set can feel as daunting as climbing Mount Everest. But as you progress, those minutes add up, and with time, practice, and countless open mics, the question naturally arises: "How much time should I be able to do by my third year?"
The answer isn’t as cut-and-dried as you might hope. It’s a mix of quality, experience, and the opportunities you’ve had along the way. But let’s break it down.
Year 1: Survival Mode
Your first year is all about finding your comedic voice and learning the basics of joke structure, timing, and crowd work. Most new comedians start with 3- to 5-minute sets. At this stage, the goal isn’t to worry about length but to focus on getting solid laughs and building confidence on stage.
Year 2: Building Blocks
By year two, you’ve likely developed a few reliable bits that can consistently get laughs. At this stage, many comics are aiming to craft a solid 10- to 15-minute set. You’re not just writing jokes; you’re learning how to string them together into a cohesive act. This is also the time to experiment, bomb, and refine.
Year 3: The “Sweet Spot”
By your third year, you’ve had enough time to grow as a performer and (hopefully) enough stage time to hone your skills. Most comedians in their third year should have a tight 15- to 20-minute set of polished material. Here’s why:
Tightening Your Material: Three years gives you enough time to weed out the weak jokes and focus on your best bits.
Opportunities for Longer Sets: By now, you’ve likely been invited to do showcases or guest spots, which often require longer sets. A 15- to 20-minute act allows you to seize these opportunities.
Versatility: With 15 to 20 minutes of material, you’re ready for a variety of gigs—whether it’s opening for a headliner or performing at a local comedy club.
Quality vs. Quantity
Remember, it’s not just about how much time you can fill but how strong your material is. A tight, laugh-filled 15 minutes will always beat a meandering 30. Be honest with yourself about your set’s quality. Record every performance, listen back, and ruthlessly cut what doesn’t work.
How to Get There
If you’re aiming for that sweet spot of 15 to 20 minutes by your third year, here are a few tips:
Write Constantly: The more you write, the more you have to work with. Not everything will stick, but the process will help you refine your voice.
Perform Often: Stage time is everything. Whether it’s an open mic, a bar gig, or a comedy club, every performance teaches you something new.
Seek Feedback: Find trusted comedians or mentors who can give you constructive criticism. Sometimes an outside perspective can make all the difference.
Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try new things. Some of your best material might come from unexpected places.
Exceptions to the Rule
Every comedian’s journey is different. Some might hit 30 minutes of solid material by year three; others might still be working on their first 10. Your pace will depend on factors like how often you perform, your natural comedic instincts, and how much effort you put into improving.
Final Thoughts
By your third year in comedy, aiming for a tight, polished 15- to 20-minute set is a solid goal. But don’t get too hung up on the numbers. Focus on being funny, authentic, and engaging. The time will come, quite literally, when you’re ready for it. Keep grinding, keep writing, and most importantly, keep making people laugh.
Because at the end of the day, it’s not about how much time you can do—it’s about how much time you can crush.
