I'm a little concerned when I see people asking "What is the best (insert trick/routine type/genre)?" on these forums. Invariably, one of the factors that makes something the best in magic is originality. As soon as it is declared the best for newcomers to the craft, then there will be a ton of people copying it so it gets turned into the most common.

Now, I'm sure if you look at my post history sometime around a year ago, I probably asked some of these "the best" questions. Now, my question is: What questions should we be asking?

What's the best way to achieve X? Seems more direct of a question.

"What is the best (insert trick/routine type/genre)" seems like a very understandable and fair quwestion to ask on this forum even though the answers may get a bit complex.

Bob

The best is luckily not the easiest. Most good sleights require a substantial amount of practice - this will stop the mainstreaming . . .

Andy

Andy, If presented right the best can be the easiest. Ickle Pickle's spotty is a great example. Easiest magic, with an obvious method. But it gets a great reaction from the kids if presented right.

Technically, metal bending is very easy, but can also be very powerful.

Many great stage illusions are incredibly easy.

"Most good sleights require a substantial amount of practice" - How about, ALL good magic requires a substantial amount of practice?

But in regard to the topic: The best questions all depend on where you are in magic. Sometimes the "what is best" questions can start a dialogue on presentation. The fact that one man's best is another man's worst can be enlightening.

I think asking about the best props, books, routines, dealers, moves to accomplish something... are all valid questions.