How to Practice Acting on Your Own: 5 Proven Techniques

Acting is one of the most unique and powerful skills a person can develop. However, the journey to becoming a great actor isn’t always straightforward. While acting classes are an excellent way to learn from instructors and refine your technique, there are several ways to improve your acting independently. Here are five practical methods to help you grow as an actor—no matter where you are in your journey:

1. Learn from Books

Acting books are an invaluable resource. Libraries and bookstores are full of material written by legendary actors, directors, and teachers. Not sure where to start? Look for books with strong author bios that outline their influence on theater and film. These titles often include timeless insights into the craft that have shaped generations of performers.

2. Read Plays and Monologues

Constantly reading scripts helps develop your understanding of characters and storytelling. With regular practice, your analytical skills will strengthen. Ask questions about the character’s life and motivations, then answer using only the script. Practice performing monologues with different intentions each time to discover a range of emotional possibilities.

3. Record Yourself

Watching or listening to recordings of your performances is eye-opening. It’s a chance to evaluate your diction, body language, and overall delivery. Use recordings to spot areas for improvement and track your progress over time.

4. Practice Cold Readings

Choose a monologue from a play you haven’t studied and perform it without over-preparing. Be familiar enough to understand the context, but don’t rehearse in advance. This will sharpen your cold reading skills—essential for last-minute auditions and unexpected opportunities.

5. Use Your Imagination

Create your own stage. Sketch out a set based on a scene and use your space creatively to reflect that vision. Moving through the space as your character enhances believability and strengthens your physical connection to the material.

By practicing these techniques, you can continue growing as an actor—whether you’re in class, on set, or working independently. All it takes is time, creativity, and commitment to your craft.

Online Acting Classes & Live In-Person Training at Michelle Danner Acting Studio

Join one of the best acting schools in Los Angeles! Work with top instructors and refine your craft with our interactive online and in-person classes.

Interactive Online Acting Classes

• Receive comedic and dramatic material weekly.

• Join small group classes (max 7 students) on Skype.

• Build confidence on camera and learn to make powerful acting choices.

• Study techniques inspired by Stella Adler, Meisner, Uta Hagen, and Stanislavski.

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• Saturdays: 10 AM – 12 PM PST or 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM PST

• Sundays: 10:53 AM – 12:53 PM PST or 1:25 PM – 3:25 PM PST

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Breaking Into Hollywood – Career Workshop

This intensive course gives you the essential roadmap to launch your acting career and navigate the entertainment industry.

Learn how to:

• Get a standout headshot and demo reel.

• Build a resume that gets noticed.

• Find agents, managers, and casting opportunities.

• Understand how SAG-AFTRA works.

• Book work—even without an agent.

🗓 Length: 4 Saturdays, 10 AM – 11 AM PST
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Start your journey with one of LA’s top acting coaches—Michelle Danner. Whether you’re interested in the Meisner Technique, Method Acting, or preparing for auditions, we have the tools to help you succeed.