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Control a Selection

Control a Selection is a deceptive card magic trick that allows the magician to control a selected card to any desired position in the deck while maintaining the illusion of randomness. This close-up magic trick is perfect for intermediate performers, utilizing stacked deck principles, false shuffles, and a key card to create a baffling mystery. The magician's presentation, including confidence and patter, sells the illusion of omniscience over the deck's order, making it a strong display of skill.

Key features

  • Teaches a deceptive method for card control using stacked deck principles.

  • Emphasizes the illusion of randomness and the magician's apparent omniscience of card positions.

  • Covers techniques like false shuffles and the use of a key card.

  • Highlights the importance of presentation, including confidence and patter.

  • Recommended for intermediate performers interested in stack work and false shuffles.

Pros

  • Strong, self-working routine for reliable card control.

  • Accessible for intermediate performers with minimal sleight of hand.

  • Allows for multiple phases and a convincing display of card mastery.

  • Great addition to any card magician’s repertoire interested in stack work and false shuffles.

Cons

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Effect

The trick "Control a Selection" makes it appear as though the magician has complete control over the deck. A spectator selects a card, and despite shuffles and cuts, the magician effortlessly locates it or moves it to any desired position. The performance suggests the magician knows the exact location of every card at all times, creating a strong illusion of skill and mastery.

Full details

The method relies on stacked deck principles, particularly maintaining a memorized order while performing false shuffles and cuts. The magician uses a key card to track the selected card’s position, reinforcing the idea of randomness. The routine includes:

  • False shuffles that appear fair but keep the deck in order.
  • A key card system to track the selection without complex sleights.
  • Presentation techniques that frame the trick as a demonstration of skill rather than a hidden method.

The routine is structured to allow multiple phases, making it adaptable for different performance styles.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is best suited for intermediate card magicians who are comfortable with false shuffles and stack work. It is ideal for performers who want a reliable, deceptive method without relying on difficult sleight of hand. Those who enjoy routines with strong audience interaction and psychological impact will find this particularly effective.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The difficulty level is moderate. While it does not require advanced sleights, performers must be confident with false shuffles and maintaining a stacked deck. The real challenge lies in the presentation—selling the illusion of total card control through patter and misdirection.

What magicians say

CardMechanic describes the routine as a "strong, self-working routine" that combines deceptive methods with an engaging presentation. They highlight the "elegance of the method" and its ability to create a convincing display of card mastery. The trick is praised for its reliance on stacked deck principles, making it accessible while still baffling to spectators.

The performance tips emphasize casual confidence and misdirection through procedure, ensuring the audience believes the shuffles are genuine. According to CardMechanic, the trick works best when framed as a demonstration of skill rather than a hidden method.

For magicians interested in stack work and false shuffles, this routine is a valuable addition to their repertoire.

What people are saying about Control a Selection

CardMechanic says...

This is a strong, self-working routine for magicians who want a reliable yet deceptive way to control cards without complex sleight of hand. The reliance on a stacked deck makes it accessible for intermediate performers, while the presentation elevates it beyond a simple mathematical trick.

Tutorial videos