Step 1: Preparation

Gather a standard deck of playing cards and remove any Jokers. You’ll only need 21 cards for this trick, so select any combination of suits or ranks.

Step 2: Shuffle and Arrange

Shuffle the cards thoroughly to create a random order. Then, deal the cards face-up into three columns with seven cards each. This will be your starting layout.

Step 3: Instruct the Participant

Ask your participant to mentally choose a card from one of the three columns without revealing it to you. Have them remember their selected card throughout the entire trick.

Step 4: Collect and Restack

Now, ask the participant which column contains their chosen card. Carefully pick up each column, one by one, placing the chosen column between the other two columns in your hand.

Step 5: Redistribute

Deal the cards back into three columns of seven cards each again, placing one card at a time in each column, left to right.

Step 6: Repeat

Repeat steps 4 and 5 two more times, asking your participant which column contains their chosen card each time and placing that column between the other two when collecting them.

Step 7: Note the Chosen Card’s Position

During the third redistribution, make a mental note of where their card is positioned. It should always be the fourth card in its final column.

Step 8: Build Suspense

Take a moment to build up suspense before you reveal their chosen card. Engage with your participant and entertain them with some light banter or showmanship.

Step 9: Locate and Reveal

Locate their chosen card by counting four cards down from the top of that column, then dramatically reveal it to your participant.

Step 10: Bask in Amazement

Take time to enjoy your audience’s reaction and bask in the amazement of your successful magic trick execution.

Step 11: Practice and Refine

As with any card trick, practice makes perfect! Rehearse the 21 Card Card Trick regularly to refine your performance and enhance the audience’s experience.

Now you know how to perform a dazzling 21 Card Card Trick in 11 simple steps. Entertain friends, family members, or even strangers with this timeless and easy-to-learn magic trick that showcases your sleight of hand and sense of showmanship.