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Card Selection by BigBlindMedia

Created by: BigBlindMedia

The 'Card Selection' trick is a fascinating close-up magic effect that combines mathematical principles with card magic. A spectator is given coins to choose any number, which then dictates the elimination of cards from a grid, leaving only one card remaining. This seemingly random process culminates in a striking coincidence where the chosen number matches a pre-written number (e.g., 34) on a whiteboard. The trick is highly customizable, allowing performers to tailor the message on the whiteboard for birthdays, corporate events, or other occasions. It uses standard euro coins and requires no complex sleight of hand, making it accessible to magicians of all skill levels.

Key features

  • Self-working mathematical principle

  • Highly customizable for events

  • Uses everyday props (coins and cards)

  • No complex sleight of hand required

  • Suitable for close-up or parlour magic

Pros

  • Easy to learn and perform

  • Versatile for different audiences

  • Creates a strong moment of astonishment

  • No need for advanced techniques

Cons

  • Relies on a specific setup

  • May not appeal to those who prefer sleight-heavy tricks

Effect

In the Card Selection trick, a spectator freely chooses a number using coins. The magician then eliminates cards from a grid based on that number, leaving only one card remaining. The chosen number and the remaining card's value combine to match a pre-written number (like 34) on a whiteboard, creating a surprising mathematical coincidence. The effect appears completely random, yet the outcome is mysteriously predicted in advance.

Full Details

The trick uses a grid of playing cards and standard coins. The spectator picks any number, and the magician removes cards in the corresponding row and column. This process repeats until one card remains. The magician then adds the spectator’s chosen numbers and the remaining card’s value, revealing they total the number written beforehand (e.g., 34). The whiteboard message can be customized for different occasions, making the trick adaptable for birthdays, corporate events, or casual performances.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick suits magicians who enjoy self-working or mathematical magic. It requires no sleight of hand, making it accessible for beginners. Performers who like interactive, puzzle-like effects will appreciate its clean structure. The ability to personalize the whiteboard message also makes it useful for professional magicians performing at events.

Difficulty

The trick is easy to perform. It relies on a mathematical principle rather than complex moves, so no advanced card handling is needed. The main challenge is presentation—keeping the spectator engaged while guiding them through the elimination process. A confident delivery enhances the impact of the final coincidence.

What Magicians Say

BigBlindMedia describes it as a "fascinating self-working effect" that creates "genuine astonishment." They highlight its versatility, noting the whiteboard message can be changed for different audiences. The trick’s simplicity is praised, with the arithmetic being straightforward enough to perform without hesitation.

ChampionMagic, while discussing a different trick, emphasizes the power of card selection in creating surprising connections. Their performance of "A Simple Coincidence" shows how a seemingly random choice can lead to an impossible-seeming outcome, similar to the Card Selection trick’s structure.

Both reviewers agree that effects like this work best when presented with strong audience interaction and a clear, engaging storyline. The mathematical foundation ensures reliability, while the customization options make it adaptable for various performances.

What people are saying about Card Selection

BigBlindMedia says...

The core of the trick revolves around a seemingly impossible mathematical coincidence, creating a moment of genuine astonishment for the spectator. [...] The message on the whiteboard can be easily changed, allowing for personalized presentations.

ChampionMagic says...

This trick demonstrates the potential for creating seemingly impossible connections through careful card selection and presentation.

Performance videos

Tutorial videos