What Is a Tag In Comedy?

What Is a Tag In Comedy

If you’re a fan of comedy or have ever watched a stand-up comedy routine, you may have heard the term “tag” thrown around. But what exactly is a tag in comedy and how does it work?

A tag, also known as a punchline or a kicker, is the final line or joke in a comedic routine that aims to drive home the punch of the joke and leave the audience laughing. It’s the final exclamation point on a joke, and it’s often used to bring the joke full circle or to add a twist to the punchline.

But a tag isn’t just a one-liner that’s tacked on at the end of a joke. It’s a carefully crafted tool that comedians use to enhance their jokes and make them more memorable and effective. Here’s everything you need to know about tags in comedy and how they work.

The Importance of a Good Tag

A tag is an essential element of any comedy routine, and it’s often the part of the joke that audiences remember the most. A good tag can take a joke from mediocre to hilarious and make it stick in the audience’s mind long after the show is over.

But crafting a good tag isn’t easy. It requires a deep understanding of comedic timing, pacing, and structure. A tag has to be the perfect balance of surprise and simplicity, and it has to fit seamlessly with the rest of the joke.

So why is a good tag so important? Here are a few reasons:

• It enhances the joke: A good tag takes a joke to the next level and adds an extra layer of humor. It’s the cherry on top of the sundae and the final punch that leaves the audience laughing.
• It makes the joke more memorable: A good tag sticks in the audience’s mind long after the show is over. It’s the part of the joke that people are most likely to remember and repeat to their friends.
• It helps the comedian stand out: In a crowded field of comedians, a good tag can help a performer stand out from the crowd. It’s a unique and memorable element that sets a comedian apart from the rest.

How to Craft a Good Tag

So now that you know the importance of a good tag, how do you go about crafting one? Here are a few tips to help you create a killer tag:

• Keep it simple: A good tag is simple and to the point. It doesn’t try to be too clever or convoluted, but rather delivers the punchline with clarity and brevity.
• Make it unexpected: A good tag is surprising and unexpected. It’s the twist that takes the joke in a new and unexpected direction, leaving the audience laughing and surprised.
• Keep it relevant: A good tag is relevant to the joke and ties everything together. It doesn’t try to be too unrelated or off-topic, but rather enhances the joke and brings it full circle.
• Use timing to your advantage: A good tag is all about timing. It’s delivered at the perfect moment to maximize the punch and the laugh. Pay attention to the pacing of your joke and make sure the tag is delivered at the right moment.

Examples of Great Tags

Now that you know the importance of a good tag and how to craft one, let’s look at a few examples of great tags in action.

Example 1: “I used to play piano, but I didn’t have the talent to make a living. So I became a stand-up comedian instead. That way, I can make a living by not having talent.”

In this joke, the tag is the final line, “That way, I can make a living by not having talent.” It’s simple, unexpected, and relevant to the joke. It ties everything together and leaves the audience laughing.

Example 2: “I went to a restaurant and ordered the special. It was a heart attack on a plate. The waiter asked if I wanted to hear the specials again, and I said no thanks, I already know how this ends.”

In this joke, the tag is the final line, “I already know how this ends.” It’s unexpected, relevant to the joke, and delivered with perfect timing. It takes the joke in a new and unexpected direction and leaves the audience laughing.

Example 3: “I got a job as a weatherman, but I was terrible at it. I was always off by a mile. One day, I told people it was going to be sunny and warm, and it ended up being a blizzard. I was fired, and it was snow joke.”

In this joke, the tag is the final line, “I was fired, and it was snow joke.” It’s simple, relevant to the joke, and delivered with perfect timing. It ties everything together and leaves the audience laughing.

Conclusion

A tag, or punchline, is an essential element of any comedy routine. It’s the final line or joke that aims to drive home the punch of the joke and leave the audience laughing. A good tag is simple, unexpected, relevant, and delivered with perfect timing. It enhances the joke, makes it more memorable, and helps the comedian stand out. If you’re a comedian looking to improve your jokes, pay attention to your tags and work on crafting killer punchlines that will leave your audience laughing.