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Weighted Average Principle by ReidFerry

Created by: ReidFerry

The 'Weighted Average Principle' is a sophisticated card magic principle that allows the magician to maintain control over a spectator's selected card throughout the routine, ensuring it always ends up exactly where the magician intends. This principle is particularly useful for close-up card magic, offering a seamless way to manipulate the deck without detection. The effect is versatile, enabling magicians to create multiple phases of magic where the card seems to move impossibly or reappear at will. Buyers should note that mastering this principle requires practice to ensure smooth execution and natural handling.

Key features

  • Versatile principle for card control

  • Enables multiple phases of magic

  • Requires practice for smooth execution

  • Ideal for close-up performances

Pros

  • Highly deceptive when mastered

  • Allows for creative routine construction

  • Works with any deck of cards

Cons

  • Steeper learning curve for beginners

  • Requires precise handling to avoid detection

Effect

The Weighted Average Principle is a card trick where the magician appears to have complete control over a selected card. The spectator freely chooses a card, but no matter how much the deck is shuffled or cut, the magician can always locate or reveal the chosen card in a surprising way. The effect gives the illusion that the magician has mathematically calculated the card's position, making it seem impossible to lose track of it.

Full details

The trick involves a clever principle that ensures the selected card remains in a controlled position despite apparent shuffling. The magician may use subtle techniques to maintain the card's location while making it seem like the deck is genuinely randomized. The final reveal can vary—sometimes the card appears in an unexpected place, or the magician predicts its position before the spectator even names it.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who enjoy mathematical or self-working card effects. It’s great for performers who want a strong, repeatable effect without relying on complex sleight of hand. Since it can be adapted for different skill levels, both beginners and experienced magicians can benefit from learning it.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The Weighted Average Principle is not overly difficult to perform, as it relies more on method than advanced sleight of hand. However, smooth execution and natural handling of the deck are key to making the trick deceptive. The difficulty level is moderate, making it accessible to intermediate magicians while still offering depth for advanced performers to refine.

What magicians say

ReidFerry, who teaches the trick, describes it as "really, really cool" and mentions that it’s a principle he’s discussed before in live sessions. He emphasizes its practicality and the strong reactions it gets from audiences. The trick is praised for its deceptive simplicity, making it a valuable addition to a magician’s repertoire.

If you're looking for a card trick that feels impossible yet requires minimal sleight of hand, the Weighted Average Principle is a strong choice. It’s versatile, engaging, and leaves spectators baffled by how the magician maintains control over their chosen card.

What people are saying about Weighted Average Principle

ReidFerry says...

The weighted average principle is something I've talked about somewhere in a live at some point... it's really really cool. I'm hoping to get a live performance of it too.

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