Are you repairing a small hole, or hanging new drywall? The answer will determine whether spackle or joint compound is the better material for the job.

While the joint compound is still wet, put another coat of compound over the tape. Use only enough compound to cover the tape, which should still be visible through the compound.

Well, a little goodling didn't turn up sufficient answers. Anybody have a good appreciation of the difference. I've always though joint compoint was harder, though more difficult to sand down ...

FibaFuse Drywall Tape Solved the Issues That Can Come With Paper Tape Joint compound fills the voids in the porous material, fusing with it.