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Lazy Man's Card Trick by Harry Lorayne and Jack Miller

Created by: Harry Lorayne, Jack Miller

The 'Lazy Man's Card Trick' is a celebrated self-working card magic trick that requires no sleight of hand, making it ideal for beginners and professionals alike. A spectator selects a card, loses it in the deck, and the magician reveals its position through a clever sequence. The trick can be performed with a shuffled, borrowed deck, and there's a modified version using a memorized deck (Aronson stack) for faster execution and more visual appeal. This trick is versatile for close-up settings and delivers strong audience reactions.

Key features

  • No setup required, ideal for impromptu performances.

  • Versatile for close-up settings with audiences of various sizes.

  • No sleights needed, making it ideal for beginners.

  • Includes detailed instruction in various formats (hardback book, video tutorials).

  • Can be performed with a shuffled, borrowed deck or a memorized deck for advanced versions.

Pros

  • Strong audience reaction despite being self-working.

  • No sleight of hand required, accessible to beginners.

  • Flexible performance options (impromptu or with a memorized deck).

  • Detailed instructions and transitions provided for a cohesive narrative.

Cons

  • The modified version using a memorized deck requires familiarity with the Aronson stack.

  • Original method hides cards during the reveal, which might not be as visual.

Effect

The Lazy Man's Card Trick is a self-working card effect where a spectator selects a card, loses it in the deck, and the magician reveals its position through a clever sequence. The original method uses a simple arrangement of Spades at the bottom of the deck, while modified versions (such as using a memorized stack) allow for faster execution and a more visual presentation. The trick delivers strong reactions despite requiring no sleight of hand.

Full details

The trick is part of Harry Lorayne's repertoire and has been adapted by other magicians like Jack Miller and John Graham. It works with a shuffled, borrowed deck, making it ideal for impromptu performances. The original method relies on a specific card arrangement, but variations (such as using the Aronson stack) allow for face-up dealing and quicker reveals. The trick is often included in longer routines, such as John Graham's Afterglow, where it serves as a strong intermediate effect.

Who should consider the trick

  • Beginners: No sleight of hand is required, making it accessible to new magicians.
  • Impromptu performers: Works with any shuffled deck, ideal for spontaneous magic.
  • Memorized deck users: Those familiar with systems like the Aronson stack can enhance the trick's speed and visual appeal.
  • Close-up magicians: Suitable for small to medium-sized audiences.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The original version is easy to perform, requiring only basic card handling and no advanced techniques. The modified version using a memorized deck (like the Aronson stack) increases the difficulty slightly, as it requires familiarity with stack systems. However, both versions are designed to be low-effort while maintaining strong magical impact.

What magicians say

  • SaturnMagicShop highlights its inclusion in John Graham's Afterglow, praising its seamless integration into a structured act: "The real value lies in the transitions and scripting—Graham teaches how to weave these routines together into a cohesive narrative."
  • MurphysMagicSupplies emphasizes its beginner-friendly nature: "No sleights needed—ideal for those still developing their technical skills."
  • Profrt discusses the modified version with a memorized deck: "The Aronson stack version requires some memorization skills but elevates the performance."

The Lazy Man's Card Trick is a versatile, reliable effect that suits a wide range of performers, from beginners to seasoned professionals looking for a strong impromptu routine.

What people are saying about Lazy Man's Card Trick

Beau says...

The trick is part of Harry Lorayne's repertoire, a legend known for his contributions to self-working and mathematical card magic.

John Graham says...

A good trick can wow your audience, but a good act takes them on a journey.

profrt says...

The 'Lazy Man's Card Trick' is easy to perform and gets strong reactions. [...] The modified version uses a memorized deck (Aronson stack) for faster execution and face-up dealing.

Tutorial videos