If you are just starting into mentalisim, it's ok to learn some tricks along the way, but do yourself a favor and start learning the basics of this aspect.
As magicians, we want something that is sure fire, in mentalisim, do not be fearful of not being 100% right.
I agree with the suggested Osterlind links provided and also any Bob Cassidy things you find, also I find that Patrick Redford has some very good effects, writings, and DVD's.