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Lotto Predictions by Joao Miranda

Created by: Joao Miranda

Lotto Predictions is a mentalism trick that allows the performer to accurately predict a number chosen by a spectator from a lottery ticket. The spectator freely selects a ticket, cuts it, and taps a pen in a seemingly random location. The pen's gimmick enables the performer to predict the tapped number with 100% accuracy, even after the spectator signs their name on the ticket. This trick is versatile and can be performed in close-up, stage, or parlor settings. The Mental Pen, used in this trick, is a normal Sharpie with a gimmick cap that allows for subtle and deceptive forces. The spectator activates and deactivates the gimmick, adding to the illusion of free choice.

Key features

  • Versatile performance options (close-up, stage, parlor)

  • Spectator activates and deactivates the gimmick

  • Inspectable after use

  • Quick reset time (approximately 3 seconds)

  • Can be performed from a 360-degree angle (excluding angles below the performer)

  • Includes pen, gimmick cap, and reset tool

  • Difficulty level: Bare Bones beginner

Pros

  • Highly deceptive and versatile

  • Spectator involvement enhances the illusion

  • Quick reset time allows for multiple performances

  • Inspectable after use adds to the trick's credibility

  • No sleight of hand required

Cons

  • Gimmicks are small and can be easily lost

  • Sharpies dry out faster than normal due to the gimmick

  • Requires clear instructions to spectators to avoid mistakes

Effect

The Lotto Predictions trick using the Mental Pen creates a strong mentalism effect where a spectator freely chooses a lottery ticket, cuts it, and taps the pen in a seemingly random spot. The performer then reveals an accurate prediction of the number the spectator selected, even after they sign their name on the ticket. The spectator handles the pen the entire time, making the effect appear completely fair and impossible.

Full Details

The Mental Pen is a gimmicked Sharpie pen that allows the performer to force a prediction without any sleight of hand. The spectator opens, taps, and closes the pen themselves, activating and deactivating the gimmick naturally. The pen comes with a cap, gimmick, and reset tool. After the performance, the pen and ticket can be inspected.

The trick works in close-up, stage, or parlor settings and can be performed from almost any angle. The reset takes about 3 seconds, and the pen uses standard Sharpie refills, though they may dry out faster than usual.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for:

  • Mentalists who want a clean, self-working prediction effect.
  • Beginners since it requires no sleight of hand.
  • Performers who want a versatile prop for multiple routines, including map predictions, word reveals, and more.

Magicians who prefer magic-focused pen tricks may find other props more suitable, but for pure mentalism, this is a strong choice.

Difficulty

The Mental Pen is rated as "Bare Bones beginner level" by reviewer Sebastian Tocamagic. The key is giving clear instructions to the spectator. If they don’t follow directions correctly, the effect may fail, so strong presentation skills help.

What Magicians Say

Sebastian Tocamagic, who has used the Mental Pen extensively, rates it 8.5 out of 10. He praises its versatility, self-contained design, and the fact that the spectator controls the gimmick. He says:

"If you're a mentalist, I heavily recommend this over other variations... The possibilities of routines are endless."

He notes that the Sharpie ink dries faster than usual and that the small gimmick pieces can be easily lost. However, the strength of the trick—being completely examinable and requiring no sleight of hand—makes it a worthwhile investment for mentalism performers.

What people are saying about Lotto Predictions

Sebastian Tocamagic says...

Mental Pen is fantastic for mentalism effects, especially Lotto predictions. The spectator activates and deactivates the gimmick, which is super unique and cool. [...] I give it an 8.5 out of 10 and heavily recommend it for mentalists.

Review videos