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52 Predictions

52 Predictions is a card magic trick where the magician presents a playing card with a prediction on it. When the prediction is peeled off, it reveals a playing card underneath that matches a card freely named by the spectator. The trick involves a clever gimmick that allows for any of the 52 cards in a deck to be predicted, making it versatile and surprising. It's suitable for close-up performances and requires a switch at the end if the card is to be handed out for examination.

Where to buy

52 Predictions by N2G and XZ from Alakazam Magic
Alakazam Magic52 Predictions by N2G and XZ£39.22
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52 Predictions by N2G and XZ from Magicbox
Magicbox52 Predictions by N2G and XZ£39.96
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Key features

  • Allows for any of the 52 cards in a deck to be predicted

  • Suitable for close-up performances

  • Requires a switch at the end if the card is to be examined

  • Versatile and surprising effect

Pros

  • Versatile prediction effect

  • Suitable for close-up magic

  • Can be performed with any card named by the spectator

Cons

  • Requires a switch at the end for examination

  • May be confusing without a strong routine

Effect

The 52 Predictions trick is a card prediction effect where the magician appears to know a spectator's chosen card in advance. The magician presents a playing card with a prediction written or displayed on it. When the spectator names any card from the deck, the magician peels away a covering (such as a Post-it note) to reveal that the prediction matches the spectator's freely selected card. The effect is clean, direct, and leaves the audience wondering how the magician could have predicted their choice.

Full Details

  • The trick involves a specially prepared gimmicked card that allows the magician to reveal any of the 52 possible cards in a deck.
  • No force is required—the spectator can genuinely name any card.
  • The method is quick to reset, making it practical for repeated performances.
  • At the end of the trick, the magician must switch the gimmicked card for a normal one if they wish to hand it out for examination.

Who Should Consider the Trick

  • Close-up magicians who want a strong, visual prediction effect.
  • Mentalists looking for a card-based revelation that appears impossible.
  • Performers who value quick resets and minimal setup.
  • Social media magicians who want a clean, camera-friendly effect.

Difficulty

  • Skill Level: Beginner to intermediate. The method is straightforward, but smooth handling is required to make the reveal convincing.
  • Performance Considerations: The magician must be comfortable with a card switch if they want to hand out the card for examination.

What Magicians Say

Mark Travis from Saturn Magic reviewed the trick and noted:

"52 Predictions was found confusing... but the premise for entertainment is a million percent better than some other effects. At least when you get the spectator to pick a card and that card is then revealed to be the one under the little Post-it note, it makes sense."

While he initially questioned the trick's purpose, he acknowledged that it has strong potential when presented with a clear routine. The effect is praised for its directness and the impossibility of the prediction.

Final Thoughts

52 Predictions is a practical, visual card prediction that can be a strong addition to a magician's repertoire. While it requires a simple switch if examination is needed, the method is easy to learn, and the effect is powerful when performed well. If you're looking for a clean, baffling prediction with minimal setup, this trick is worth considering.

What people are saying about 52 Predictions

SaturnMagicShop says...

52 Predictions was found confusing. A prediction effect that Mark found confusing, questioning its purpose.

Review videos