Magic Square by Harry Anderson, John Archer, and Mark Traversoni

Effect

The Magic Square is a mathematical trick where the magician creates a grid of numbers where every row, column, diagonal, and even smaller groupings of numbers all add up to the same total. The spectator freely chooses a number, and the magician quickly fills in the grid to match that number. The effect is visually impressive and leaves the audience baffled as they verify that every combination indeed sums to their chosen number.

Full details

The Magic Square involves constructing a 4x4 grid where every possible combination of four numbers (rows, columns, diagonals, corners, and even smaller squares within the grid) adds up to the spectator's chosen number. The magician can perform this quickly, often in under 30 seconds, making it a strong visual piece. Some versions use pre-constructed crib cards or digital tools to assist in generating the correct numbers, while others rely on memorized formulas or algorithms.

The trick can be presented in various ways, from a serious mathematical demonstration to a comedic routine. Some performers use it as a prediction effect, where they reveal a pre-written grid matching the spectator's number, while others construct the grid live for added impact.

Who should consider the trick

The Magic Square is ideal for magicians who enjoy mathematical magic and want a strong, repeatable effect that plays well in both close-up and stage settings. It's particularly suited for performers who interact with audiences and can engage them in verifying the sums. Mentalists may find it useful as a demonstration of mathematical intuition or prediction.

Those who prefer visual, sleight-heavy magic might find it less appealing, as it relies more on presentation and mathematical principles than physical manipulation. However, performers who can inject personality and humor into the routine (like John Archer does) can make it highly entertaining.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The difficulty varies depending on the method used. Some versions require memorizing algorithms or formulas to construct the square quickly, which can be challenging. As Chris Harding notes, "it's really hard to do well" when trying to create original presentations.

Simpler methods use crib sheets or pre-constructed cards (like the EDC Squared system), making the trick essentially self-working. These versions are much easier to perform but still require strong presentation skills to maximize the impact.

The mathematical nature means performers should be comfortable with basic arithmetic and able to perform additions quickly when demonstrating the effect. As Joshua Jay mentions in his Particle System, having a safety net or method to recover if you blank on a number is valuable for more complex versions.

What magicians say

• Chris Harding describes it as "a work in progress" that shows his dedication to refining complex routines, noting that "it can be really really bad um and really boring or overly complicated but I think it's it can be very entertaining."
• John Archer performs it with lightning-fast precision and comedy, completing it in under 30 seconds while keeping the audience engaged with jokes and banter.
• Mark Traversoni's EDC Squared system makes the magic square portable and repeatable, with laminated cards that can be reused or given away as souvenirs.
• Craig Petty notes that while the mathematical nature may not appeal to everyone, "the mathematical elegance ensures it's both baffling and repeatable."
• Multiple reviewers highlight how versatile the effect is, working for close-up, parlor, and stage performances when presented well.

The Magic Square remains a classic effect that continues to impress audiences when performed with confidence and personality. As Chris Harding concludes, "it's a really good trick a magic square is again one of those routines that can be really really bad um and really boring or overly complicated but I think it's it can be very entertaining."