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Mathematical Prediction by Simon Lipkin

Created by: Simon Lipkin

The Mathematical Prediction trick is a captivating mentalism effect that combines elements of psychological suggestion, mathematical principles, and audience interaction. Spectators are invited to freely choose numbers or designate cards, perform calculations or selections, leading to a seemingly impossible prediction revealed by the magician. This trick is versatile, suitable for close-up, parlour, or stage performances, and requires minimal props, making it accessible to magicians of all levels. The core appeal lies in its ability to create a profound sense of wonder and impossibility, as the magician accurately predicts outcomes that appear to be entirely random and under the spectator's control.

Key features

  • Combines mentalism with mathematical principles for a powerful effect

  • Requires minimal and readily available props

  • Suitable for various performance settings (close-up, parlour, stage)

  • Emphasizes audience interaction and the illusion of free choice

  • Easy to learn and perform with practice

Pros

  • Highly engaging and interactive with the audience

  • Creates a strong sense of impossibility and wonder

  • Versatile and adaptable to different performance styles

  • Minimal setup and props required

Cons

  • Relies heavily on presentation and audience management

  • May require practice to perfect the timing and delivery

Effect

The Mathematical Prediction trick creates a strong illusion of free choice and impossible foresight. A spectator freely selects numbers, performs calculations, or designates cards as red or black. Despite their choices appearing random, the magician reveals a precise prediction—often tied to a personal item like a childhood photograph or a pre-written note. The effect combines mathematical principles with psychological misdirection, making the outcome seem both impossible and deeply personal.

Full Details

The trick involves two main routines:

  • Number Prediction – The spectator freely chooses numbers, adds them together, and arrives at a total. The magician then reveals a prediction (such as a date on a childhood photo) that matches the calculated number.
  • Card & Envelope Prediction – The spectator designates cards as red or black or shuffles envelopes containing different values. Despite apparent randomness, the magician correctly predicts the order of the cards or the location of the highest-value item.

    • Both versions rely on mathematical principles and subtle psychological guidance to ensure the outcome aligns with the prediction.

    Who Should Consider the Trick

    This trick suits magicians who:

    • Enjoy mentalism and prediction-based effects.
    • Prefer routines with minimal props (cards, envelopes, or a simple photograph).
    • Want a strong, interactive effect that feels fair to the audience.
    • Appreciate combining mathematical principles with storytelling.

    Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

    The trick is designed to be easy to learn and perform. Simon Lipkin describes his routines as "hard-hitting mentalism tricks that are easy to do" and can be mastered quickly. The mathematical principles are straightforward, and the psychological techniques rely more on presentation than complex sleight of hand.

    What Magicians Say

    • Simon Lipkin (AlakazamMagicUK) emphasizes the importance of audience freedom: "You shuffled them as much as you wanted to... you gave me any one of the ones that you had in your hand. I didn't force those choices in any way shape or form." He also highlights the power of personal storytelling, tying the prediction to a childhood memory for added impact.
    • BigBlindMedia focuses on the illusion of fairness: "The spectator decides if one is red or if one is black... completely free choice." Their version uses card color designation and a predicted sum, reinforcing the idea that the spectator’s choices are truly random.

    Both reviewers agree that strong presentation and audience engagement are key to making the trick feel impossible. The mathematical foundation ensures reliability, while the performer’s confidence sells the illusion.

    What people are saying about Mathematical Prediction

    AlakazamMagicUK says...

    Simon Lipkin's lecture showcases his ability to create engaging and accessible mentalism routines. He clearly believes in the power of simple effects performed with confidence and personality.

    BigBlindMedia says...

    The trick creates an illusion of fairness and mathematical prediction. The spectator's choices are presented as seemingly random, leading to a surprising reveal of both color accuracy and a predicted numerical sum.

    Tutorial videos