The basics of cold reading involve starting with general statements that are likely to be true about anyone: “I see you have financial concerns.” “You feel as if no one truly understands you.” “Your family has been on your mind a lot recently.” Such vague assertions can seem quite specific when someone is applying them to you. As you nod and express amazement, the reader makes other comments, following up on only those statements that garner a good reaction. The psychic says, “Maybe your sister . . . or an aunt . . . definitely a woman close to you . . .”—and he or she watches for your
...more
