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This Card Trick

This card trick is a close-up magic performance that involves a spectator freely shuffling and selecting a card, with the magician revealing a prediction that spells out the spectator's card. The trick relies on memorization of the 12th card from the bottom of the deck, subtle misdirection, and strategic placement of a written prediction ('This must be it') after the memorized card. The reveal is a theatrical spelling out of the prediction, culminating in the spectator's card. High-quality cards are recommended for the best effect, and the spectator maintains a significant amount of control throughout the trick, enhancing the illusion of a genuine prediction.

Key features

  • Spectator freely shuffles and selects a card

  • Prediction is revealed by spelling out the spectator's card

  • Memorization of the 12th card from the bottom is crucial

  • Uses subtle misdirection while removing jokers

  • Prediction is placed after the memorized card

  • High-quality cards recommended for performance

  • Spectator has significant control, enhancing the illusion

Pros

  • Strong, seemingly impossible prediction effect

  • Engaging and suitable for parties or events

  • Combines memorization, misdirection, and a clever reveal

  • Spectator's perceived freedom adds to the trick's impact

Cons

  • Requires precise memorization and placement

  • Needs subtlety to avoid revealing the method

Effect

The trick creates a strong prediction effect. A spectator shuffles and selects a card freely. The magician reveals a written prediction that initially seems unrelated ("This must be it"). The prediction is then spelled out, and the spectator's chosen card appears at the final letter. The effect is clean, with the spectator having full control over shuffling and cutting the deck.

Full Details

The magician writes a prediction ("This must be it") and sets it aside. The spectator shuffles the deck. While removing jokers, the magician secretly memorizes the 12th card from the bottom. The spectator cuts the deck, shuffles a portion, and selects a card. The magician places the prediction after the memorized card. The spectator finds the prediction, which is then spelled out to reveal their card.

Key elements:

  • Memorizing the 12th card from the bottom.
  • Using misdirection while removing jokers.
  • Placing the prediction strategically.
  • Spelling the prediction for the reveal.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick suits magicians who enjoy prediction effects with strong audience interaction. It works well for close-up or casual performances. Those comfortable with memorization and subtle misdirection will find it effective.

Difficulty

The trick requires memorization and smooth handling. The misdirection while removing jokers must look natural. The placement of the prediction should be discreet. Intermediate magicians will find it manageable with practice.

What Magicians Say

CardMechanic describes it as a "clever card trick designed to create a strong, seemingly impossible prediction." He highlights the spectator's control and the deceptive nature of the reveal. He recommends high-quality cards for smoother handling.

Key quote:
"The combination of memorization, misdirection, and a clever reveal makes this trick a potentially valuable addition to any magician's repertoire."

The trick is praised for its engaging presentation and strong impact on audiences.

What people are saying about This Card Trick

CardMechanic says...

This card trick MUST BE IT! It's a standout routine that's both deceptive and engaging, perfect for entertaining audiences.

Tutorial videos