One branch of Marc Oberon’s work relates to creating systems with so many multiple outs that all
possibilities are catered for (e.g. Way Out, Outstanding). Psych Out is another instalment, and it
relates to the use of whiteboards to reveal the correct prediction.
The primary method is
obvious enough and is already used in mentalism, but the value here is in creating a context where
the performer can smoothly, quickly and safely get away with something that at first seems rather
blatant. The audience is well familiar with dry erase pens: their use is here not concealed or
disguised as in other effects in mentalism.
His point that a well-designed routine and the
right timing of the moves make this method more suitable or effective than the use of a sw—i,
especially in stage work and even parlour work. Everybody can see what is written on a whiteboard as
the revelation.
You are paying for the creative intelligence that makes the method feasible
in practice. There are clever ideas on layout and sequencing that you are most unlikely to devise
yourself without trial and error. There are about six specific effects, even including a chair test
and a book test.
The specifics of method deserve serious consideration. Some will eagerly
add this versatile method to diversify their repertoire. Its price is far lower than the more
elaborate systems that Oberon has created.
Disclosure: I am a non-performing hobbyist.