Keyword ActionsBeginner

Tap in MTG

Turn a permanent sideways to show that it has been used.

Why it matters

Tapping changes a permanent's status from untapped to tapped. Attacking normally taps a creature, and the tap symbol in an activated cost requires tapping an untapped permanent.

Visual example

Tap a permanent

Icy Manipulator

Uses a tap cost to tap another permanent

Tap a permanent
  1. 1Begin with Icy Manipulator untapped on the battlefield.
  2. 2Pay one mana and tap it as the cost of its activated ability.
  3. 3Choose the target permanent that the ability will tap when it resolves.

Real card example

Icy Manipulator

Uses a tap cost to tap another permanent

Common mistakes

  • A tapped creature can still have its other abilities activated if their costs do not require tapping it.
  • Tapping an attacking creature after it attacks does not remove it from combat.

Official rule reference

Comprehensive Rules 701.21 · Current Comprehensive Rules

View official rules