Quick and Dirty Tarot: Reading Spreads

Photo by MShades (cc)

The traditional meanings of each card can be applied to situations to help you interpret events and situations.  Use the little white book (sometimes called a LWB) for your deck, or a tarot book you like. Some cards have cue words printed right on them.

Some things to look for when reading a spread:

• How many Major cards are there? How many Minor cards? Are there more females or males? Do you see a pattern of numbers, shapes, or colors? Are there many cards from one suit?

• What parts of the illustrations catch your eye? Do some symbols seem to repeat or draw your attention? Do any cards seem to go together for some reason? Trust your instincts here.

• If your deck has other symbols and you are comfortable with them, these can add meaning. Does your astrological sign appear in a card? A color that represents a certain element? Search for clues.

Try lining your Major cards up in order- place the Fool on top, and then make three rows of seven cards with the rest. Do you see any patterns? Which cards do you find the most interesting? Do some cards look similar?

Related posts:

1. A Tarot Q&A: Part 1
2. Choosing a Tarot Deck
3. {A Little Alchemy}