When thinking about card magic, few skills are more valuable than the ability to force a playing card. You can read all about forces and reveals on sites like Ambitious with Cards.
Magicians should think about when, why, and how we force playing cards. The answer to those questions will only improve our card magic. So, let's start answering those questions about forcing playing cards together!
What is a magic card force?
This question is probably the best place to start. A card force is a sleight or technique that controls what playing card the spectator will select. It seems simple, but as we will talk about in a bit, it is a pretty complex topic. Some forces are accomplished by mechanical means, while others are completely psychological. Regardless of the methodology, the choice must seem as if there isn't a single way you could have made them choose that card.
When do you force a playing card?
At the beginning of a trick… sometimes. Some forces, such as the one used in Collusion by John Bannon, happen towards the end of the trick. But for the most part, having a card selected is a great place to start a trick. Many of the best tricks that involve forcing start only after the card has been forced.
Why do you force playing cards?
When I was talking to a friend, he asked why I loved using forces in my magic. It allows me to plan to create the best effect possible. Because I know what the card will be, I can focus on the impossibility and presentation and not have to worry about the trick "working." Practically, I can read a mind, predict the future, do cards to impossible locations, or anything else. Or, in other cases, it's to create diversity for a tv show.
How do you force a playing card?
There are hundreds (I wish I were exaggerating) of ways of forcing a card. Mathematical, topological, and psychological methods have been explored in the history of magic. But instead of being vague, I will briefly mention 5 of my absolute favorite methods and offer some further resources and ideas!
The Cross-Cut Force
Max Holden's Criss Cross Force (commonly referred to as the Cross Cut Force) is a great place to start talking about forces. The spectator cuts the cards into two piles; the place they cut to is marked by placing one of the packs onto it at an angle. After a moment, they look at the card they cut to.
Essentially, this either forces the top or bottom card onto the spectator. Because of the topological nature of the force and the reliance on time misdirection, this force is most appropriate for more intimate performances, preferably where it isn't being recorded. So, avoid using this for social media! But don't underestimate how powerful it can be in a live situation.
