TL;DR Creating a viral meme is largely about originality, humor, timing, and luck.
Originality and Humor
One of the key elements in creating a viral meme is originality combined with humor. Memes that stand out are often those that bring a fresh perspective or a unique twist on a common theme. As one commenter noted, being original and funny is crucial, although sometimes success comes when someone else reposts your creation [1:1]. It's important to create content that resonates with people and makes them laugh, as this increases the likelihood of sharing.
Luck and Timing
Many users agree that luck plays a significant role in whether a meme goes viral [1:2]
[2:1]. Timing can also be crucial; memes that tap into current events or trends can gain traction quickly. The "Distracted Boyfriend" meme, for example, exploded across social media due to its timely appeal and relatable humor
[2]. While you can't control luck, staying aware of trending topics and cultural moments can help you capitalize on the right timing.
Engagement and Platforms
Choosing the right platform and engaging with communities can increase the chances of a meme going viral. Posting in active subreddits or forums dedicated to memes can generate initial engagement. However, it's important to follow community rules, such as only posting original content [5:1]. Engaging with users who comment on your meme can also foster a sense of community and encourage further sharing.
Letting It Emerge Naturally
Some users suggest that trying too hard to make a meme go viral can be counterproductive. Allowing a meme to emerge naturally without forcing it may lead to better results [4:2]. This approach involves creating content that feels authentic and letting the audience decide its value.
Formulaic Approaches
While some discussions humorously suggest formulas like "Meme x People x time squared" [4:1], there is no guaranteed formula for virality. Instead, focusing on creativity, relatability, and humor while keeping an eye on trends can improve your chances.
In summary, while creating a viral meme involves many uncontrollable factors, focusing on originality, humor, timing, and platform engagement can increase your chances of success.
That is mostly about luck.
Be original and funny.
No one will like it.
Then someone else will steal it and repost it and it'll go viral. Job done.
Okay, so I see memes everywhere, right? And some of them just explode. Like, one day nobody's heard of "Distracted Boyfriend," and the next day it's on every single social media platform, even on news sites.
I've tried a few times to create some silly image macros and post them, but they just kind of... sit there. I even tried posting in subreddits that people said were good for, uh, "generating engagement", something to do with Reddit karma? But nothing really caught on.
So, ELI5: What actually makes a meme go viral? Is it just random luck? Is there some secret formula or ingredient that makes people want to share it with everyone they know? Like, what are the key ingredients? Is it just timing? Do viral memes just happen to reflect a current mood or sentiment?
I'm genuinely curious how it works. Thanks in advance!
Asked by every exec in every marketing agency in the world.
How to make a meme without breaking a sweat. I don't know why anyone would need to do this if their memes are so much more fun.
I mean, there is definitely a place for fun in memes, but I think if you get too into the fact that the other person is posting that they are laughing at your jokes and it drives you nuts, you're going to have a hard time keeping your shit together. Like I've said before, you probably won't be laughing all that much until you're done with the joke, but then you'll likely have a hard time trying to continue.
Just a bunch of lines about how funny I am
Oh, so the other one is a picture of me and my ex?
I know they were just joking, but no they are not.
So funny
I made it in 4 hours using only the computer! 😁
Y'all are gonna get laughed out of here.
I will be doing this again tomorrow if I can't finish.
I'm getting really tired of this meme format
That's the problem with this sub
You have to stop trying and let it emerge on its own.
Sugar, spice, and everything nice!
Sugar?
Meme x People x time squared.
with eventual diminishing returns of course.
Classic Pablo!
Thank you for submitting to /r/memes. Unfortunately, your submission has been removed for the following reason(s):
Rule 6 - ONLY POST MEMES YOU ACTUALLY MADE YOURSELF/NO REPOSTS and NO BAD CROPPING/LOW-RES MEMES
Resubmitting a removed post without prior moderator approval can result in a ban. Deleting a post may cause any appeals to be denied.
If we want Pepecoin to skyrocket in value, we need to create the dankest, funniest, most shareable memes we’ve ever made. Memes are not just jokes – they’re cultural currency in the digital age. They spread because they’re simple, relatable, and spark an instant emotional reaction, whether it’s laughter, surprise, or excitement. This combination makes people want to share them without thinking twice, which is the foundation of virality.
To attract new frens, we need people to visit this subreddit, laugh so hard they forget they’re even spending money. A great meme makes Pepecoin unforgettable. It turns a silly idea – like spending $1,000 on a frog coin – into something people want to be part of.
Memes work because they travel faster than any ad. Unlike traditional marketing, they don’t feel forced; they’re natural, they’re fun, and people pass them along willingly. The best propaganda in the 21st century is the kind that doesn’t look like propaganda, and that’s exactly what memes are.
If we create memes that people love to share, we can make Pepecoin not just a token, but a movement.
Okay, first things first. Who knows how to make memes? Anybody?
Yes, that's right. We need to get more people involved. Maybe we can consider asking everyone to take a photo with Pep's image, and then post it on reddit, twitter, TikTok, Facebook, etc., and everyone can choose the winner
but actually, I think we should have some focus in on the $pepe vs $pep disbute. but we had people making songs and stuff that are genuinely kinda funny.
Exactly man, the other pepe doesn’t even have an Anthem yet. $Pep is light years ahead already they dont even know it yet.
How do we differentiate pep memes from Pepe memes ??? That is the challenge
Any meme maker besides Mematic
Nah use mematic and just crop the watermark out
Big brain move
I use Meme Generator free when on mobile. It's surprisingly great for photo editing. On PC I just use paint.net (the program, not the website)
I use image editor, here's the link to the play store. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.pcvirt.ImageEditor
Photoshop or https://imgflip.com/memegenerator
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well... you could still post them somewhere else i think...?
Step by Step, it actually works!!111!
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I need help, I din't know how to do a forverbox meme :(
just made this
thanks bro!
that was really helpful ��❤️
bright colorful word art with cheerful stock images, sad caption
if you don’t have a computer, or if you don’t want to pay for a editing software, i 100% recommend ibispaint X. You’re gonna need to learn how to use it though, it should only take like 30 minutes of fucking with the app to get a grip
first, you’re gonna want a good joke heading into creating it.
create a canvas, using a 1:1 ratio (square) is recommended, start with the background, could be pretty much any pattern or anything, but most foreverbox memes use a gradient or tiedye patterns, both of which you can create in the software without much issue.
secondly, import your image, use the “magic wand” tool to isolate your image by selecting the background of the image, using the lasso tool to clean up the selection and delete it, leaving the image itself. i recommend using the “glow (outer)” option in the FX tool to make the image pop. of course, you can put in as many images as you want.
thirdly, use the text tool to type out your text, color it however you’d like, just make sure you can distinguish it from the background so it is legible.
also, this is optional, you can rqsterize the text layer (basically turning it into an image) by merging the layer down to an empty image layer, that way you can warp and scale in however you want. or you can clone the text, turn it black and move it slightly and into the layer behind the text layer as to give it depth
PM me if you need help!
how to make a viral meme
Key Considerations for Creating a Viral Meme
Relatable Content: Memes that resonate with a wide audience tend to go viral. Focus on common experiences, emotions, or cultural references that many people can relate to.
Humor: Incorporate humor, as funny memes are more likely to be shared. Use clever wordplay, absurdity, or irony to engage your audience.
Visual Appeal: Use eye-catching images or graphics. High-quality visuals or popular meme formats can enhance shareability.
Timeliness: Tap into current trends, events, or popular culture. Memes that reference timely topics are more likely to gain traction.
Simplicity: Keep your message clear and concise. A straightforward joke or concept is easier for people to understand and share.
Use of Formats: Familiar meme formats (like "Distracted Boyfriend" or "Drake Hotline Bling") can help your meme gain recognition quickly.
Engagement: Encourage interaction by asking questions or prompting viewers to share their own experiences related to the meme.
Recommendation: Start by brainstorming ideas that combine humor and relatability. Use meme generator tools to create your meme, and share it on platforms like Reddit, Instagram, or Twitter where meme culture thrives. Monitor engagement and be ready to adapt based on feedback or trends.
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