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Yin to my Yang by Liam Montier

Created by: Liam Montier

Yin to my Yang is a captivating close-up card trick that plays on the classic 'Out of This World' effect, where a spectator freely separates red and black cards, only to reveal the magician has predicted every move, culminating in a reveal that all cards add up to 42. This trick combines mathematical principles with psychological misdirection, using a specific arrangement of cards (3s, 5s, 7s, 8s, 9s, and 10s) to create a visually stunning and mind-blowing experience. The inclusion of Carl's Even Money Principle and false shuffles enhances the illusion of a genuinely shuffled deck, making it a powerful tool for magicians looking to add a touch of the paranormal to their performances.

Key features

  • Uses a specific card arrangement and mathematical principle where the sum of all cards adds up to 42.

  • Incorporates Carl's Even Money Principle and false shuffles like the Free Cut and Swing Cut to enhance the illusion.

  • Allows for repeated performances by swapping pairs of the same color.

  • Strong presentation tips included, focusing on storytelling and misdirection.

  • Suitable for magicians of all levels, with a clear and concise explanation of the method.

Pros

  • Creates a powerful and visually striking effect.

  • Spectator makes all the choices, enhancing the illusion of free will.

  • Can be modified for repeated performances.

  • Includes valuable performance tips and presentation ideas.

Cons

  • Requires a specific set of cards, which may limit spontaneity.

  • The setup may be a bit complex for beginners.

Effect

The trick "Yin to my Yang" creates the illusion that a spectator freely separates a shuffled mix of red and black cards into two distinct piles. Despite the spectator making every choice, the magician reveals they predicted each decision. At the end, the magician shows that the total value of the selected cards adds up to 42, reinforcing the idea of a preordained outcome.

Full Details

The trick uses a specific set of cards: 3s, 5s, 7s, 8s, 9s, and 10s. These cards are arranged in pairs (one red, one black of the same value) and then mixed to appear shuffled. The magician employs Carl's Even Money Principle to maintain the paired arrangement while making the deck seem randomized. False shuffles, such as the Free Cut and Swing Cut, can be used to enhance the illusion.

The spectator is asked to choose between red and black cards repeatedly. No matter their choices, the cards separate perfectly into red and black piles. The final reveal involves showing that the sum of all selected cards is always 42, which can be displayed beforehand for added impact.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick suits magicians who enjoy interactive, prediction-based effects. It works well for both casual and experienced audiences. Those who appreciate mathematical principles in magic will find the method intriguing. The trick is adaptable, allowing for different presentations, including themes of paranormal ability or intuition.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The method relies on a structured setup rather than advanced sleight of hand. The key challenge is maintaining the paired arrangement while making the deck appear shuffled. False shuffles can be incorporated for added deception, but they are optional. The trick is accessible to intermediate magicians, though beginners may need practice to handle the presentation smoothly.

What Magicians Say

BigBlindMedia describes the trick as "a beautiful effect" with strong visual impact. They highlight the importance of presentation, suggesting themes like paranormal abilities to engage the audience. The false shuffles are recommended for experienced spectators or magicians, as they "can be surprised by some of the simplest effects."

Liam Montier, the creator, emphasizes the spectator's freedom of choice, making the final separation of red and black cards seem impossible. The reveal of the number 42 ties the effect together, creating a memorable moment. The trick is praised for its simplicity and strong audience reaction.

What people are saying about Yin to my Yang

BigBlindMedia says...

This is a beautiful effect by Liam Montier... it's an out of this world done with just a number of playing cards. The Spectator makes all of the choices... and then at the end we predict all of the things that they've done by revealing that the number of the playing cards... all tally up to 42.

Tutorial videos