Joke Formulas Laughter As a Science

🤹 1. The “Setup + Twist” Formula (Classic One-Liner or Short Joke)

Formula:
[Normal situation or expectation] + BUT + [Unexpected or absurd twist]

Example:
“I’m on a seafood diet… I see food and I eat it.”

How to use:
Start with something relatable. Then flip the ending in a surprising or absurd way.
Try your own:
“I tried to be productive today, but my couch wouldn’t let me go.”

👨👩👧👦 2. The “Relatable Pain” Formula (Observational Humor)

Formula:
[Annoying everyday situation] + [Exaggerated reaction]

Example:
“Nothing makes you question your life choices like opening a Tupperware cabinet.”

How to use:
Pick something small but universal (e.g., traffic, losing the remote). Add emotion or drama for comic effect.
Try your own:
“My phone battery lasts longer than most of my relationships.”

🤔 3. The “Misdirection” Formula (Surprise Humor)

Formula:
[Lead audience to assume A] + [Deliver B instead]

Example:
“I thought I wanted a career, turns out I just wanted a paycheck and snacks.”

How to use:
Use wording that sets up one idea, then take a sudden turn.
Try your own:
“I started jogging… but I kept spilling my fries.”

🧠 4. The “Literal Logic” Formula (Smart-Alec Jokes or Puns)

Formula:
[Take a figurative phrase] + [Respond as if it’s literal]

Example:
“They said, ‘Break a leg!’ So I tripped the lead actor.”

How to use:
Use common expressions, idioms, or metaphors, then twist the meaning.
Try your own:
“They told me to think outside the box… so I climbed on top of it.”

💔 5. The “Self-Drag” Formula (Self-Deprecating Humor)

Formula:
[Flaw or weakness] + [Funny exaggeration or ironic spin]

Example:
“I’m not great at the advice. Can I interest you in a sarcastic comment?”

How to use:
Make yourself the joke, but keep it lighthearted.
Try your own:
“I have the body of a god—unfortunately, it’s Buddha.”