If you love making people laugh and have considered making it a full-time job, then chances are you have considered becoming a stand-up comic. The road toward comedic genius is not an easy one, requiring lots of hard work for little pay, but the rewards for success will be worth it. Continue reading this guide for more information on how to become a stand-up comedian.

• Did you watch every season of Last Comic Standing, the entire time wishing you were the one up on stage with a chance to win it all? Is your idea of a good time going out to a comedy club or sitting at home watching an HBO comedy special? Have you dreamed of creating your own comedy sketches and having them featured on Saturday Night Live? If so, you might want to consider pursuing stand-up comedy. This guide will help direct you on how to become a stand-up comedian.

Betting online (Creative Commons photo by Tony the Misfit)

• The road to becoming a comedic genius begins with training, and most aspiring comics:

1. Take public speaking classes. This will help you develop a stronger stage presence and articulate your words properly.
2. Take improvisational classes.
3. Join a comedy troop. You can join an existing troop like The Groundlings or Second City, or you can start your own.
4. Practice speaking in front of a mirror
5. Perform in front of friends and family

• The idea is to get comfortable performing in front of people.

• Every comedian needs to stand out from the rest. Be unique! It is important not to come have a similar persona to an already established comic. This is why it is important to watch as many comedians as you can. Study their routines, mannerisms and overall presence. See what works for them, all the while trying to determine what might work for you. Capitalize on aspects of your personality that stand out from others.

• Now it is time to write your routine. Keep in mind that no routine is permanent. Don't be afraid to change it at the last minute if you suddenly come up with the best joke, or realize that you should take something out because it simply isn't funny or may just not be appropriate for a particular audience. Here are some tips:

1. Write what you know. This includes topics that interest you, whether it is sports, politics or 'going green'
2. Write everyday. You should carry a tape recorder and small notebook around in case you come up with a joke while going on an afternoon walk.
3. Compose a routine that is roughly five minutes
4. All stories or jokes should have a setup and payoff
5. Keep in mind that you can use props, music and capitalize on any celebrity impressions you may be able to pull off

• You are finally ready to get out their on the comedy circuit and find out if you have what it takes to survive the long and often grueling road toward comedic stardom. Keep in mind that success does not happen overnight and most comedians bomb at first. Do not become discouraged! You should:

1. Perform at open mics. This is generally the starting place for aspiring comedians; it is where you see what jokes work and which don't, tweaking your presence and routine accordingly.
2. Perform at comedy clubs. You will usually start out doing 'bringer shows,' which usually occur early in the evening and abide by the rule that anyone can perform if they bring in at least five customers that will pay the cover charge.

• Achieving comedic success is not easy, but will instead require hard work and dedication. However, for those that are serious about their comedy, the road to stardom can be reached if you are fully committed to going all the way.

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