5 Tarot Spreads Every Beginner Should Try

It’s a rainy afternoon, and my tarot deck is spread out on the table, ready for a quiet moment of reflection. Tarot is one of my favorite tools for self-discovery, offering clarity and insights when life feels uncertain. If you’re just starting your tarot journey, trying out simple spreads is a great way to build confidence and connect with your deck. Here are five beginner-friendly tarot spreads to help you get started.

1. The One-Card Pull

Sometimes, less is more. A single card can provide powerful insights and guidance.

When to Use:

• Daily reflections or journal prompts.
• Quick answers to specific questions.

How to Do It:

1. Shuffle your deck while focusing on your question or intention.
2. Draw one card and reflect on its meaning.

Example: Asking, “What energy should I focus on today?” and pulling The Sun card might remind you to embrace optimism and joy.

2. The Past-Present-Future Spread

This classic three-card spread is perfect for gaining perspective on any situation.

When to Use:

• Understanding challenges and next steps.
• Reflecting on how past experiences shape your current path.

How to Do It:

1. Shuffle your deck with your question in mind.
2. Lay out three cards:
   • Card 1 (Past): What influences are shaping this situation?
   • Card 2 (Present): What’s happening now?
   • Card 3 (Future): Where is this leading?

Pro Tip: Don’t overthink the future card—it shows potential, not a fixed outcome.

3. The Yes/No Spread

While tarot isn’t always about black-and-white answers, this spread can help you gain clarity when you need a quick yes or no.

When to Use:

• Making decisions.
• Weighing options.

How to Do It:

1. Shuffle your deck while focusing on your yes/no question.
2. Pull one card:
   • Upright = Yes.
   • Reversed = No.
3. Reflect on the card’s meaning for deeper context.

Example: Pulling The Lovers upright for “Should I take this opportunity?” might signal harmony and alignment with your goals.

4. The Decision-Making Spread

Feeling torn between two options? This spread can help you weigh the pros and cons.

When to Use:

• Choosing between career paths, relationships, or projects.

How to Do It:

1. Shuffle your deck and think about your decision.
2. Lay out five cards:
   • Card 1: The overall situation.
   • Card 2: Option 1’s energy.
   • Card 3: Option 2’s energy.
   • Card 4: Hidden influences or obstacles.
   • Card 5: Advice or guidance.

Pro Tip: Look at which option aligns more with your values and goals.

5. The Self-Care Spread

Tarot is a great tool for checking in with yourself. This spread focuses on nurturing your well-being.

When to Use:

• During stressful or overwhelming times.
• For personal growth and self-reflection.

How to Do It:

1. Shuffle your deck and think about your self-care needs.
2. Lay out three cards:
   • Card 1: What do I need to release?
   • Card 2: What should I focus on?
   • Card 3: How can I support myself?

Example: Pulling The Hermit for the second card might suggest taking time for solitude and introspection.

Tips for Beginner Readers

• Trust Your Intuition: There’s no wrong way to interpret a spread—let your instincts guide you.
• Keep a Tarot Journal: Write down your spreads, interpretations, and any patterns you notice.
• Start Small: Focus on simple spreads before diving into more complex ones.

Final Thoughts

Tarot spreads are like roadmaps for your inner world, helping you navigate challenges and uncover new perspectives. Whether you’re pulling one card or diving into a full spread, the key is to stay open and curious.

Have a favorite tarot spread or a memorable reading? Share your experiences in the comments—I’d love to hear how tarot has guided you!