The Algebra Behind Magic

Authors

Lois Carpenter

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2025

Abstract

Card Tricks have long been a staple in the common magician’s repertoire, and while many tricks can be explained through sleight of hand alone, others rely on seemingly random shuffling methods that leave the magician with significant control over the deck. Applied card magic (frequently referred to as ‘cheating’) makes significant use of this ability. Thus, the utility of this topic is clear- anyone with basic mastery of perfect shuffles has complete control over the arrangement of cards in a deck, and with it a fundamental advantage against other players in any game of cards. While most perfect shuffles are easy to identify, our knowledge of Abstract Algebra can help us reduce the suspicion of our fellow players whilst maintaining our relative advantage.

Comments

Undergraduate Research Awards - 2025 Winner, First-year/Sophomore Category

Recommended Citation

Carpenter, Lois, "The Algebra Behind Magic" (2025). Undergraduate Research Awards, Hollins University. 86.
https://digitalcommons.hollins.edu/researchawards/86