Copying a spell in Magic: The Gathering sounds like using the same effect twice, but the rules are precise. The copy is put on the stack, is normally not cast, keeps decisions already made for the original spell, and changes targets only when the copying effect allows it.
A copy is a spell on the stack, but it was not cast
When an effect copies a spell, the copy goes directly onto the stack. It is a spell even though no physical card represents it. However, it was not cast, so abilities that trigger whenever you cast a spell do not trigger for the copy.
You also do not pay the original mana cost again. Casting and paying happened for the original object. Be careful with different wording that tells you to copy a card and then cast the copy; that is another procedure.
What is copied automatically?
Rule 707.10 copies the spell’s characteristics and the decisions made for it, including:
- chosen modes;
- the chosen value of X;
- targets, unless changing them is allowed;
- additional or alternative costs chosen;
- other choices made while casting.
Choices normally made on resolution are not locked in by the copy. Each spell makes those choices separately when it resolves.
| Element | Copied? | Can it change? |
|---|---|---|
| Chosen mode | Yes | Normally no |
| Value of X | Yes | No for that copy |
| Targets | Yes | Only with permission |
| Mana cost paid | Not paid again | The copy is not recast |
| Resolution choices | No | Made for each resolution |
Modes and X are already fixed
A copy uses the same modes as the original spell. Permission to choose new targets does not allow a new mode. The value of X is copied in the same way. If X is 4 on the original, it is 4 on the copy even though no mana is paid for it. See our guide to spells with X in Magic for the casting calculation.
New targets require permission
Many copy effects say that you may choose new targets for the copy. Without that sentence, the targets remain the same. With permission, you may keep some targets and change others, but every new target must be legal. Announce them as the copy is created, not when it starts resolving.
Which object resolves first?
The copy is usually placed above the original spell, so it resolves first if nobody responds. Its result can therefore change the game state before the original resolves. Use a neutral marker and announce “copy on top, same mode, same X, new targets if allowed”. Our guide to the stack and priority explains when players can respond.
A complete generic example
You cast a modal instant, choose its second mode, set X to 3 and target a creature. An ability copies it and allows new targets. The copy keeps the second mode and X = 3. You may keep the creature or select another legal target. You pay no cost again, and the copy does not trigger a cast trigger. The copy resolves first unless another response is added.
Common mistakes
Counting the copy as cast
It is a spell on the stack but was not cast. Read trigger wording carefully.
Choosing a new mode
The mode is copied. New-target permission changes targets only.
Recalculating X or paying costs
X is copied and costs are not paid again. Objects used for an original additional cost can still matter if the spell refers to them.
Changing targets too late
Targets are chosen when the copy is created, before players receive priority again.
Resolution checklist
- Which effect creates the copy?
- Does it allow new targets?
- Which modes and X belong to the original?
- Where is the copy on the stack?
- Have players received priority?
- Which choices will be made on resolution?
Key takeaway
Create the copy, record its copied parameters, then resolve it normally. It enters the stack without being cast, preserves modes, X, targets and cost decisions, and changes targets only with permission. Browse the Magic: The Gathering collection at Poke-Geek for your next games.
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