Roman Math

This trick allows you to demonstrate your mastery of history, logic and math all at once.

Start with 16 matches arranged on a table like this:

I + II + III = IIII

(Use the matches to make the "+" and "=" signs).

The challenge is to move just one match to make this equation make sense. Bet your audience a drink that they can't solve it in 5 minutes.

The solution would have made perfect sense to the ancient Romans. It looks like this:

I + I + I + I = IIII

To do this, take just one of the matches in the II and place it across the middle match in the III.

Bar Bet Bonus: Even if someone figures this one out, you've just enjoyed a few minutes of mental stimulation with a stimulating audience of women.

3-D Thinking

Start with 6 bottle caps or coasters and arrange them in a 'T' shape. Place 4 bottle caps in a straight line, and then place the other two caps on either side of the top cap.

The challenge is to make 2 rows of 4 caps each. However, you can only move one bottle cap.

When everyone's finished fumbling around, you can provide the very simple solution. Take the bottle cap from the bottom of your T-shape and place it on the bottle cap at the top.

Voila! You've made two rows of four.

Bar Bet Bonus: At a party, collecting bottle caps for this trick is a great way to meet people. Especially attractive, female people.

Mental Mover

You can do this trick with a cigarette or, in these increasingly non-smoking times, a straw.

Place the straw on the tabletop and explain how you will use your mind to push it away from yourself.

Bend over the straw and hold your hand over it, wiggling your fingers as you try to mentally "connect" with your target.

The real point of moving your fingers is to distract your audience because the trick is to slightly open your mouth and simply exhale. Even if you're not right on target, your exhalation will move across the flat surface of the table and accomplish your goal.

Bar Bet Bonus: If you're a smoker, you can win more free cigarettes this way. But the real bonus is taking the time to share the secret and passing on your wisdom.