Math Magic Tricks
In ancient times, because they posessed knowlege and skils that others didn’t know about, scientists and mathemeticians were sometimes thought to posses magical powers. You can use math today to show your powers too!
What You’ll Need:
- A willing subject
- Pencil
- A piece of paper
- And if you are so inclined, a calculator
What to Do:
- First ask your friend or family member to pick a number between one and ten.
- Multiply that number by 2.
- Add 5 to your answer.
- Now multiply that total by 50.
- Then add 1752 if the person already had their birthday this year or add 1751 if they haven’t had it yet.
- Next, subtract the person’s year of birth. Be sure you use a four-digit number like 1990 for the year.
- Wave your hands over the paper (or calculator) with a wizardly flourish and show your friend the magical three-digit number. The first number is the same one your friend originally chose and the last two are your friend’s age!
Hint: a cloak and wand often heighten the wizardly effect.
