The Number Prediction Trick
Learn a number prediction trick using simple arithmetic and a secret formula; perform it for friends and reveal how the math makes the prediction work.
Step-by-step guide to The Number Prediction Trick
Step 1
Gather your paper pencil and eraser and sit at a tidy table.
Step 2
Write "Number Prediction Trick" at the top of your paper in big letters.
Step 3
Write a short script on the paper that you will read to friends with these exact instructions: "Think of a secret number. Multiply it by 2. Add 8. Divide by 2. Subtract your original number. Tell me the final number."
Step 4
Choose a secret number between 1 and 100 and write it down on your paper.
Step 5
Multiply your secret number by 2 and write the result on the paper.
Step 6
Add 8 to that result and write the new total on the paper.
Step 7
Divide that new total by 2 and write the answer on the paper.
Step 8
Subtract your original secret number from that answer and write the final number on the paper.
Step 9
Look at the final number and write the number 4 loudly and clearly on your paper.
Step 10
Write a simple math proof on the paper that shows why the trick works using a letter: "Let x be the secret number. Then (2x + 8) ÷ 2 = x + 4. Subtract x and you get 4."
Step 11
Practice reading your script aloud once while pretending to be surprised when you reveal the answer.
Step 12
Find a friend or family member and perform the trick exactly using your written script.
Step 13
After you reveal "4" show your paper and read the math proof to explain why the trick always works.
Step 14
Share a photo or description of your trick performance and your proof on DIY.org.
Final steps
You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!
Help!?
What can I use if I don’t have a pencil, paper, or a tidy table for the activity?
Use a pen, marker, or a notes app on a phone/tablet instead of a pencil and paper, or write on a whiteboard or clipboard on your lap if you don't have a tidy table, and still follow the written script and steps exactly.
What should I do if my friend skips a step or gets the math wrong during the trick?
Ask them to follow the written script and to write each intermediate result (after 'Multiply by 2', 'Add 8', 'Divide by 2', 'Subtract original number') on the paper so you can check their arithmetic before they tell you the final number.
How can I adapt this trick for younger or older children?
For younger kids use secret numbers between 1 and 10 and let them use counters or fingers for each step, while older kids can change the +8 in the 'Add 8' step to another even number and write a generalized algebraic proof like 'Let x…' on the paper.
How can I extend or personalize the Number Prediction Trick to make it more interesting?
Change the 'Add 8' step to a different even number and update your script and the written math proof so the revealed final number matches your new choice, and decorate the paper or record the performance to share on DIY.org.
Watch videos on how to The Number Prediction Trick
The Number Illusion You Won't Believe
3 Videos
The Number Illusion You Won't Believe
Math Prediction Trick Tutorial
How Predictable Are You? Three Digit Magic Trick
Facts about math tricks and mental arithmetic
✏️ Martin Gardner popularized recreational math puzzles that inspired countless math-based magic tricks for kids and adults.
🎩 A classic method is to ask for a secret number, have the person do a fixed sequence with a hidden constant, then you can always predict the outcome.
🤝 Famous mentalists such as Derren Brown combine simple math, psychology, and showmanship to amaze audiences—but the math is learnable!
🧠 Many number-prediction tricks work because arithmetic steps funnel lots of different starting numbers into the same final result.
📐 Practicing these tricks helps kids use algebra ideas (like variables and inverse operations) in a playful way.
How do I perform the Number Prediction Trick step-by-step?
What materials do I need for the Number Prediction Trick?
What ages is the Number Prediction Trick suitable for?
What are the benefits and variations of the Number Prediction Trick?
One subscription, many ways to play and learn.
Only $6.99 after trial. No credit card required