A 'tag' refers to any addition made to a joke after a punchline. Usually a quick one-liner, or a second or third punchline, the tag keeps the momentum of the joke going and builds on the humor of the original punchline. While tags are a relatively advanced topic, they are worth mentioning if only to emphasize the best source of new material - existing material.
Recently I sat down and watched a tape I made sometime ago - back when I had only about ten minutes of decent material (decent being a relative term). I discussed six topics in ten minutes. Now, in thirty minutes, I discuss seven topics - including all six topics from way back when. One joke about cigarettes has become four; one joke about weddings became three bits that take almost five minutes. The point is, as you grow as a comedian, your existing jokes should grow with you. Once you've hit a topic once, it is easier for the audience to come along on the next joke and easier for you as a writer to find more nuggets of humor.
The Unique and the Common
Stand-up comedy, when successful, is essentially about finding an unique viewpoint on common experiences. There is a reason why comics constantly pore over subjects such as relationships, television, and politics - because they are shared experiences among all of us, which are easily understood and relatable. It is important that your jokes cover topics that your audience can understand. If you're doing a joke about your poor old Aunt Lucy, the joke can't just be funny around the dinner table at Thanksgiving. What is it about Aunt Lucy that all, or even most, of the audience can relate to their own aunt or grandmother? Too many beginning comics seem to do jokes that fit the old cliché response, "I guess you had to be there."
On the flip side, it is important to remember that your joke be unique. Sure, Michael Jackson is weird - but why is your joke worth telling? What is your take on it? What do you bring to the table? It is important to watch other comedians as you begin. Are they doing similar jokes to yours? If so, you might want to consider dropping those jokes. It is painful to cut two minutes when you only have six, but in the long run it will push you toward becoming a unique, successful comedian.
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