Extra Sensory Perception (ESP) Prediction Trick. This ESP trick is a powerful mentalism effect where a spectator seemingly chooses a random card, only to discover it matches your prediction. Using simple positioning, you’ll ensure the chosen card always reveals the star symbol, creating a mind-reading effect that feels truly magical.
Extra Sensory Perception (ESP) Prediction Magic Trick
Effect Summary
- Preparation: Write a prediction that says, “I predict you will choose the star,” seal it in an envelope, and hand it to a spectator for safekeeping.
- Card Layout: Lay out 10 ESP cards (two of each symbol) face down in a row, making sure stars are at positions 3 and 7.
- Selection and Reveal: The spectator picks any number between 1 and 10, and no matter what they choose, you count to it in a specific way, always landing on a star.
- Prediction Reveal: The spectator opens the envelope, revealing your accurate prediction: the star symbol.
Setting Up the Trick
Materials
- Prediction Paper: Write, “I predict you will choose the star” on a piece of paper, fold it, and seal it in an envelope.
- 10 ESP Cards: Use two cards of each symbol: circle, cross, wavy lines, square, and star.
Card Layout
- Place the 10 ESP cards face down in a single row.
- Arrange them so that stars are in positions 3 and 7 (counting from the left).
Performing the Trick
Step 1: Introduce the Prediction
- Hand the spectator the sealed envelope with your prediction inside and ask them to keep it safe.
- Explain that you’re going to conduct a simple ESP experiment to test their intuition.
Step 2: Explain the Selection Process
- Lay out the 10 ESP cards face down in a row on the table.
- Instruct the spectator to choose any number between 1 and 10. Emphasize they have a free choice.
Step 3: Count to the Chosen Number
Using a special counting method, follow these instructions based on the number they choose:
- If they choose 1: Count O-N-E from the left.
- If they choose 2: Count T-W-O from the left.
- If they choose 3: Count 1-2-3 from the left.
- If they choose 4: Count 1-2-3-4 from the right.
- If they choose 5: Count F-I-V-E from the right.
- If they choose 6: Count S-I-X from the left.
- If they choose 7: Count 1-2-3-4-5-6-7 from the left.
- If they choose 8: Count 1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8 from the right.
- If they choose 9: Count N-I-N-E from the right.
- If they choose 10: Count T-E-N from the left.
By following these counting patterns, you will always land on a card in either position 3 or 7, which is the star symbol.
Step 4: Reveal the Chosen Card
- Turn over the selected card to reveal the star symbol, enhancing the suspense and intrigue of the moment.
Step 5: Reveal the Prediction
- Ask the spectator to open the envelope and read the prediction: “I predict you will choose the star.”
- The match between their chosen card and your prediction creates a powerful effect.
Additional Tips
- Presentation: Build anticipation as you count to their chosen number. Act as though you’re not certain what card it will be.
- Misdirection: If the spectator is particularly observant, distract them subtly as you count the cards. This prevents them from noticing the star’s position pattern.
- End Reveal: Once the star card is revealed, you can flip over the remaining cards to show they are different symbols, strengthening the effect.
About ESP Cards
ESP (or Zener) cards include five standard symbols: a circle, cross, wavy lines, square, and star. These cards are easy to obtain from magic suppliers, or you can create your own using these symbols.
This ESP trick is an excellent way to introduce mind-reading to your routine, leaving your audience questioning the boundaries of intuition and psychic ability
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