Copying Spells vs Copying Permanents

Copying a spell

When an effect copies a spell on the stack, it creates a new spell object on the stack (rule 707). The copy has the same characteristics as the original when the copy was made, including modes, targets, and additional costs already chosen, unless the effect says otherwise.

Copies of spells are not cast unless an effect says you cast the copy. You usually do not pay the mana cost again. “When you cast” triggers often will not see a mere copy, while effects that care about copying a spell will.

Table scenario: You cast Lightning Bolt. An effect copies it. Two Bolts are on the stack. You did not cast the copy, so cast triggers from the original cast do not fire a second time unless something says otherwise.

Copying a permanent

When a permanent becomes a copy of another permanent, or a permanent spell becomes a copy, it copies copiable values: name, mana cost, color indicator, card types, subtypes, supertypes, rules text, power, toughness, and loyalty (rule 707.2). It does not copy counters, non-copy effects that changed its color or types, or whether it is tapped—unless the effect says so.

Layer interactions matter: a copy effect is applied in the copy layer; other continuous effects may still modify the object afterward.

Tokens that are copies

A token created as a copy of a permanent gets the copiable values of that permanent. It is still a token. If it copies a legendary permanent, the legend rule can apply.

Common mistakes

Paying mana for a spell copy that wasn’t cast.

Expecting “when you cast” to fire on a non-cast copy.

Thinking a copy keeps counters from the original.

Forgetting the legend rule on legendary copies.

Source and verification

Based on Comprehensive Rules section 707 (Copying Objects). Card text can modify the default rules—always read the effect that creates the copy. At a sanctioned event, ask the event judge.

Related guides

• Legend Rule, Tokens & Copies Explained

  Learn how the legend rule, tokens, and copy effects work in Magic: The Gathering, including what happens when you control two legendary permanents in play.

• Continuous Effects and the Layer System Explained

  When multiple effects try to change the same characteristic of a permanent, Magic's layer system determines the order they apply. Here's how it works.

• How the Stack and Priority Work in Magic

  A plain-English breakdown of one of Magic's most misunderstood mechanics: the stack, priority, and what really happens when two players both want to act at the same time.