52 Factorial by Paul Gordon

Effect

The 52 Factorial trick creates a seemingly impossible prediction using a shuffled deck of cards. The magician involves the audience in shuffling, cutting, and reversing cards multiple times, ensuring the deck is thoroughly randomized. Despite the chaotic mixing, the magician reveals specific predictions, such as the exact number of face-up and face-down cards, their colors, and even particular cards like the Five of Hearts or a royal flush in Spades. The trick plays on the mathematical concept of 52 factorial, which represents the enormous number of possible card combinations in a shuffled deck, making the prediction appear even more astonishing.

Full details

The 52 Factorial trick by Paul Gordon uses a standard deck of cards and a booklet. The magician starts with a mixed deck and involves the audience in shuffling, cutting, and reversing cards multiple times. This process ensures the deck is thoroughly randomized. The booklet then reveals specific predictions, such as the number of face-up and face-down cards, their colors, and even particular cards. The trick leverages the mathematical concept of 52 factorial, which represents the vast number of possible card combinations in a shuffled deck, adding to the sense of impossibility and wonder.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who enjoy card magic and want to incorporate a strong mathematical hook into their performances. It is also suitable for those who appreciate audience participation and want to create an interactive experience. The trick is visually impressive and can be a great addition to a magician's repertoire, especially for those who enjoy performing for audiences that appreciate both magic and mathematics.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The 52 Factorial trick requires careful handling to ensure it works as intended. While it is a self-working trick, it may need practice to perform smoothly and confidently. Magicians should pay attention to the precise handling of the deck and the booklet to maintain the illusion of randomness and ensure the predictions are revealed correctly. With practice, the trick can be performed effectively, but beginners may need to spend some time mastering the details.

What magicians say

Craig Petty describes the 52 Factorial trick as "highly visual" and praises its strong mathematical hook and audience participation. He notes that the trick is visually impressive and plays on the idea of impossibility. However, he also mentions that it requires precise handling and may need practice to perform smoothly. Craig rates the trick 95%, while Ryland gives it 79%. Overall, the trick is well-received for its engaging and interactive nature, as well as its strong mathematical foundation.