Tarot Spreads for Beginners: 6 Simple Layouts That Work

You don't need a complicated spread to get a good reading. Most beginners improve faster with small layouts, because you can actually remember what each card said. Start at the top of this list and work down.

1. One card

Draw one card for the day or for one question. Read it, then read it again in the evening and see what you'd say differently. It's the fastest way to learn the cards, and it fits any schedule. Looking up the card's meaning is fine too. Our card pages have all 78.

2. Past, present, future

Three cards in a row. Good for a general overview. See how to read a 3 card spread.

3. Situation, challenge, advice

Three cards again, but built around a problem. It gives you the thing, the obstacle and a suggestion, which is why it's the one most people end up using for real decisions.

4. You, them, the connection

For relationships. The third card isn't a prediction, it's a description of what sits between you two right now.

5. Free spread

Any number of cards from one to ten, laid out however you like. Useful once you have a favourite way of reading. Name each position yourself before you draw, so the cards have something to answer.

6. Celtic Cross

The classic ten card spread. It's too much for your first week, but by the time you're comfortable with three cards it's a good next step. Read the position-by-position guide.

Tip: Whatever spread you choose, decide the positions first and write the question down. A spread with no question tends to produce a vague reading.