How to Misdirect With Magician Patter

Patter is one of the most effective tools for a magician. Simply put, it refers to when you speak to a spectator. I have written a tutorial on how to effectively use patter during a trick, but this tutorial will teach you how to actually misdirect a spectator simply by talking to her.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Magic Game Plan
• Confidence

1. Learn what misdirection means. You've probably seen cliche examples of magicians waving their hands coaxing you to look one way while they do something the other way.

2. Honestly, read my "How to Effectively Use Patter" tutorial. You need to understand the basics of patter before misdirecting with it.

3. Have a bit of knowledge about your spectator. This can be precognitive knowledge or knowledge gained within 30 seconds of spotting the spectator. Short attention spans are gold when it comes to misdirection.

4. Direct your eyes and the conversation to the opposite side of where you are currently manipulating a card and coin. It may seem simple, but spectators will subconsciously follow wherever your eyes move.

5. Maintain eye contact while speaking! The more they look into your eyes, the less they stare at your hands.

6. Be natural. Regardless of how smooth you may be, spectators will get thrown off by dishonesty or acting. Even if only for a few seconds, it only takes a few seconds to spot the ins and outs of a trick.