Each of the below learning paths prescribe a recommended set of tasks, books, courses, etc. to help you put together a study plan. Remember the Break Diver's Creed: No Rules. No Excuses. No Regrets. Go make it happen!


Beginner


  • Find learning materials that give you an overview of what Sketch is.  You can find them in the 'resources' section for Writer (Sketch).

  • Make sure your language skills are competent enough to write sketch in whichever language you choose.

  • Definitely make sure you have proper screenwriting software.  There are a number of free options you can use to get started in the 'resources' section.

  • Come up with premises that are weird enough to make it funny.  Coming up with the premise is often the hardest part.

  • Be sure to visit all 'Beginner Resources' here in this handbook.


Intermediate


  • By the intermediate stage, you should have at least 15 sketches written out and polished.

  • You should have produced, or had produced, at least a few of your sketches live, or recorded on video.

  • You should understand the sketch format of setup, beat, beat, beat, button that permeates most sketches, and becoming good at coming up with them fairly quickly and easily.

  • Take other classes in Stand Up Comedy, Improv Comedy, Sitcom Writing, etc.  All will help you tremendously in becoming a better sketch writer.

  • Be sure to visit all 'Intermediate Resources' here in this handbook.


Advanced


  • By this stage, you should have at least 50 sketches written and polished,  

  • Start focusing on getting more and more of your sketches produced.  If need be, produce the sketches yourself, and star in them.  Do whatever you must to ensure that your sketches do not remain only on the page.

  • Work on refinement: try to get to the setup and first beat even more quickly than you currently are able to do; try to write more authentic dialogue; etc.

  • Be sure to visit all 'Advanced Resources' here in this handbook.