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ISS-P by Kaleb Wade

Created by: Kaleb Wade

ISS-P is an impromptu mentalism routine that can be performed with just a stack of eight symbol cards drawn on blank index or business cards, making it highly portable and suitable for close-up or casual settings. The routine involves spectators choosing symbols from the cards, with the performer seemingly reading their minds to reveal the selected symbols across multiple phases. The trick is designed to be an 'Every Day Carry' effect, requiring minimal setup and allowing for a strong impromptu feel. The ebook includes not only the main ISS-P routine but also variations like I.S.P., Mist, and Mystify, offering a range of mentalism effects from symbol reading to prediction.

Key features

  • Impromptu and requires only blank cards and a pen

  • Includes multiple routines in one ebook: ISS-P, I.S.P., Mist, and Mystify

  • Designed for portability and ease of performance

  • Combines well-known magical principles for a deceptive effect

  • Allows for customization of symbols and spectator involvement

Pros

  • Highly portable and impromptu

  • Strong mentalism effect with minimal props

  • Includes multiple routines for variety

  • Flexible presentation options

  • Engages spectators directly in the creation of the effect

Cons

  • Requires memorization or quick thinking for impromptu symbol creation

  • May need adaptation for solo performances or different audience sizes

Effect

The ISS-P trick is an impromptu mentalism routine using a stack of eight symbol cards. A spectator selects symbols from the cards, and the magician reveals their choices without any apparent clues. The routine progresses through multiple phases, ending with a clean, hands-off reveal where the magician correctly identifies the spectator's chosen symbol even after the cards have been shuffled.

Full details

ISS-P (Impromptu Solo Sensory Perception) is a variation of Kaleb Wade's I.S.P. routine, designed for a single spectator. The trick uses eight blank cards, each marked with a simple symbol (circle, cross, triangle, square, star, stickman, arrow, heart). The magician can draw these symbols on the spot or have the spectator draw them, enhancing the impromptu feel.

The routine involves four phases:

  • The spectator selects a symbol from a spread, and the magician reveals it.
  • The magician dribbles the cards, and the spectator stops at any point, with the magician again identifying the chosen symbol.
  • The spectator picks a symbol, which is lost in the deck, shuffled, and dealt onto the table.
  • Through a series of eliminations, the spectator narrows down the cards until only their chosen symbol remains.

    • The final phase is particularly strong because the magician does not touch the cards, making the reveal appear impossible.

    Who should consider the trick

    ISS-P is ideal for mentalists and magicians who want a portable, impromptu routine. It requires only blank cards and a pen, making it easy to carry and perform anywhere. Those who enjoy interactive mentalism with clean reveals will appreciate this trick.

    Information on how difficult it is to perform

    The method relies on well-known magical principles combined in a clever way. While not self-working, the handling is straightforward once learned. Nique Tan suggests using pneumonics to memorize the symbols if performing with spectator-drawn images, which adds a layer of difficulty but enhances the impromptu feel. The trick is manageable for intermediate performers, though beginners may need practice to smooth out the phases.

    What magicians say

    Nique Tan praises ISS-P as a "great routine" with clever methods that create a strong mentalism effect. He highlights the final phase as his favorite because the magician's hands stay off the cards, making the reveal seem impossible. He also appreciates the flexibility in presentation, noting that having spectators draw the symbols adds entertainment value.

    Tan describes the routine as "simple but clever," allowing the performer to focus on presentation rather than complex handling. He believes it is a valuable addition to any mentalist's repertoire, especially for those who enjoy impromptu effects.

    Overall, ISS-P is a deceptive and engaging routine that combines simplicity with strong mentalism principles.

    What people are saying about ISS-P

    Nique Tan says...

    I.S.P. is a clever and well-layered routine that creates the impression of mind reading. [...] The routine’s portability and ease of performance make it an 'Every Day Carry' effect, requiring only blank index cards or business cards and a pen.

    Review videos