Schrodinger’s Envelopes by Mato and TCC

Effect

Schrodinger’s Envelopes is a card trick inspired by the famous Schrödinger’s cat paradox. A spectator freely selects a card from a deck, which is then placed inside an envelope. Five additional envelopes labeled A to E are shown, and the spectator chooses one. When the selected card is revealed from their chosen envelope, it matches a prediction written on the back of all the envelopes. The effect creates a sense of mystery and impossibility, as if the outcome was predetermined despite the spectator’s free choices.

Full details

The trick uses a gimmicked card and specially crafted envelopes, similar to the principle behind Alan Shaxon’s Flap method. The envelopes are sturdy but not indestructible, so care is needed when handling them. The gimmicked cards have standard Bicycle-style faces, meaning the trick works best with a standard deck. The method is self-working, requiring no sleight of hand, and the envelopes can be examined after the trick.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who enjoy table magic or parlor settings. It works well in casual performances, such as dinner table magic, where the envelopes can be laid out for visual impact. Since it requires no advanced techniques, it’s also suitable for beginners looking for a strong, self-working effect.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

Schrodinger’s Envelopes is easy to perform. The method relies on the gimmicked props rather than sleight of hand, making it accessible to magicians of all skill levels. The tutorial is concise, running just under 10 minutes, and covers everything needed to perform the trick effectively.

What magicians say

Alex Kirk from Monster Magic praises the trick’s plot and presentation, calling it a "real cracker of an effect." He appreciates the connection to Schrödinger’s cat, which adds an engaging narrative. However, he suggests that the gimmick might work better on the envelopes rather than the cards for a cleaner reveal. Kirk also notes that while the envelopes can be examined, the gimmicked cards cannot, which may draw unwanted attention. Despite this, he concludes that it’s a strong, easy-to-perform trick ideal for casual performances.

Kirk’s final thoughts: "It is still a really really strong, really easy too trick. It's ideal for when you're sitting down with a group of friends around the dinner table perhaps."