7+ Popular Tarot Spreads for Beginners and Advanced Readers

The mystical world of tarot can be fascinating for beginners and advanced readers, regardless of your Tarot skill level. Tarot spreads, or the arrangement of cards during a reading, play a significant role in interpreting the energy surrounding a situation or person. With so many spreads available, uncovering new insights and perspectives can be an exciting journey.

For those starting their tarot journey, exploring popular card decks and tarot spreads that cater to various levels of expertise is important. From simple three-card spreads to more complex five-card layouts, there are options for every reader to gain a deeper understanding of the messages the cards have to offer. In this article, we will delve into some of the most popular tarot spreads for both beginners and advanced readers, allowing every tarot enthusiast to enhance their skills and find guidance in their readings.

By exploring these popular tarot spreads (for different experience levels), any reader can sharpen their intuition and connect more deeply with the wisdom of the cards. So, whether you're a seasoned tarot practitioner or just beginning your journey, these spreads offer valuable insights to help navigate life's uncertainties and make more informed decisions.

Basic History of Tarot Spreads

The history of tarot cards and tarot spreads dates back to 14th-century Europe. Originating in Italy, the tarot was initially used as a game called "tarocchi" before it took on the more familiar divination role we know today.

At first, the decks consisted of only four suits: cups, swords, coins, and staves. Later on, the 22 Major Arcana cards were added, giving the tarot deck its current structure. The addition of the Major Arcana allowed for deeper interpretations and a more symbolic understanding of the cards.

Throughout centuries, various tarot spreads were developed as the art of tarot reading evolved. Some of the earliest known tarot spreads include the three-card, which represents the past, present, and future; and the five-card, which expands the interpretation by adding cards for core reasons and advice on the situation.

In the early days of tarot reading, the reader and the querent (the person asking the question) would sit facing each other. The reader would shuffle the cards and lay them out in the chosen spread. As the querent selected cards, the reader would give the meaning according to their intuition and the symbolic meaning of the cards.

Today, countless tarot spreads are available to suit the needs of beginners and advanced readers alike. Some popular spreads include the Celtic Cross and the Five-Card Tarot Spread, which cater to various questions and situations.

Tarot spreads have a rich history that has developed over centuries. Their continued popularity and adaptability demonstrate the enduring appeal of tarot as a tool for self-reflection and insight.

Choosing the Right Tarot Spread

When beginning to explore tarot, choosing the right range of card spread for your needs is essential. Numerous common spreads are available, with some suited for beginners and others designed for more advanced card readers.

Question-Based Spreads

Question-Based Spreads are designed to provide insight and guidance for specific questions you may have. These spreads often produce clear, concise answers, making them ideal for beginners. Some popular question-based tarot spreads include:

• Past-Present-Future Spread: This three-card spread is perfect when your question relates to timing. Place the cards left to right, with the first card representing the past, the second representing the present, and the third representing the future.
• Yes or No Spread: A simple yes or no tarot spread can quickly answer your question. This spread is excellent for beginners, as it requires minimal interpretation.
• Belief Spread: A five-card spread that helps you explore your beliefs around a particular issue, giving insights into potential future outcomes based on your current mindset.

Energy-Based Spreads

Energy-Based Spreads focus on the energies surrounding a specific situation or person. These spreads provide a more in-depth understanding of the current energies and how they may influence future outcomes. Some popular energy-based tarot spreads include:

• Celtic Cross Spread: This advanced spread consists of ten cards that provide a comprehensive overview of a situation, making it ideal for intermediate to advanced readers.
• Magic Star Spread: A five-card spread that helps analyze the energies surrounding a specific problem or goal, offering guidance on how to harness these energies to achieve the desired outcome.
• Wheel Spread: Another five-card spread designed to provide insights into the past, present, and future energies affecting a particular situation.

Keep in mind that the most effective tarot spread for your needs may change depending on your experience, the situation at hand, and the guidance you seek. By exploring both question-based and energy-based spreads, you'll improve your tarot reading skills and gain valuable insights into the aspects of your life that matter most.

Popular Tarot Spreads for Beginners

Learning the art of tarot reading can be an exciting journey, and familiarizing yourself with various tarot spreads and basic concepts is essential in unlocking insights and messages from the cards. Let's explore some popular tarot spreads commonly used by beginners and advanced readers alike.

The Three-Card Spread

The Three-Card Spread is a simple and effective spread that is great for beginners. It consists of three cards, each representing a specific aspect, such as past, present, or future. The possibilities for questions and interpretations here are virtually endless, making this spread versatile and informative.

1. Card 1: Past
2. Card 2: Present
3. Card 3: Future

How To Do a Tarot Spread With One Card

Starting with a one-card tarot spread is ideal for beginners, as this method helps build a good understanding of individual card meanings. To perform this spread, simply draw a single card from your deck after shuffling and focus on the message and symbolism of that card in relation to your question or situation.

The Past, Present, and Future Spread

Similar to the Three-Card Spread, the Past, Present, Future Spread delves deeper into understanding a situation. This spread requires the reader to draw three cards, placing them in the following order:

1. Card 1: Past influences
2. Card 2: Present situation
3. Card 3: Future outcome

This layout allows a more comprehensive view of the situation at hand, providing insights into the progression and potential outcomes.

The Horseshoe Spread

The Horseshoe Spread is a more advanced spread consisting of seven cards placed in a horseshoe shape. The cards represent the following:

1. Card 1: Past influences
2. Card 2: Present situation
3. Card 3: Hidden influences
4. Card 4: Obstacles or challenges
5. Card 5: Outside influences
6. Card 6: Immediate outcome
7. Card 7: Final outcome

This spread offers a deeper understanding of the various factors that affect a specific situation, making it ideal for more complex readings.

Situation-Obstacle-Advice or Outcome Tarot Spreads

Lastly, the Situation-Obstacle-Advice or Outcome Tarot Spreads are perfect for readers looking to derive actionable advice and practical solutions to a particular issue. This spread consists of three cards:

1. Card 1: The current situation
2. Card 2: The primary obstacle or challenge
3. Card 3: Advice for overcoming the challenge or achieving the desired outcome

By breaking down the situation into these three components, the reader can gain valuable insights and guidance to help navigate the issue at hand.

Advanced Tarot Spreads

The Celtic Cross Spread

The Celtic Cross Spread is a popular, in-depth tarot for advanced readers. It consists of 10 cards that help provide insights into various aspects of life, such as past, present, future, and obstacles.

To perform this spread, the reader first places a card representing the present, followed by one for the immediate challenge.

Next, the focus shifts to the past, shown by a card below the first two. The fourth card represents the future, placed above the central pair. The cards then branch out to address factors such as subconscious influences, personal beliefs, external influences, hopes and fears, and the final outcome.

The Tree of Life Spread

The Tree of Life Spread is another advanced tarot spread based on the Kabbalistic concept of the Tree of Life. It consists of 10 cards corresponding to the 10 Sephirot on the Tree. This spread offers deeper spiritual insights and helps explore one's personal growth, divine connection, and path to enlightenment. To perform this spread:

1. Place three cards vertically, representing Keter (crown), Chokmah (wisdom), and Binah (understanding).
2. Add two cards horizontally, corresponding to Chesed (mercy) and Gevurah (severity).
3. Insert three more cards vertically, representing Tiferet (beauty), Netzach (victory), and Hod (glory).
4. Finally, position two cards horizontally, corresponding to Yesod (foundation) and Malkuth (kingdom).

Each card's position reflects an aspect of the querent's spiritual journey and provides guidance to overcome obstacles.

Astrological Spread - Readings With Astrology

The Astrological Spread is an advanced tarot spread that covers astrology, connecting the 12 zodiac signs to different areas of life. This spread consists of 13 cards: the first for the querent's overall theme, followed by 12 cards arranged in a circle to represent each zodiac sign's house. These cards offer insights into various aspects, such as identity, values, communication, home life, creativity, health, relationships, career, travel, social status, spirituality, and the subconscious. Essentially, the disciplines of Astrology. 

To perform the Astrological Spread:

1. Place the first card in the center, representing the querent's overall theme.
2. Arrange the remaining 12 cards clockwise around the center, starting with the house representing the querent's Sun sign and proceeding through the zodiac.

The Astrological Spread allows the tarot reader to provide nuanced guidance by considering both the tarot's symbolism and the associated astrological energies.

Tips for Reading Tarot Spreads

Developing Intuition

Developing intuition is essential for both beginners and advanced readers when reading tarot spreads. Intuition plays a significant role in interpreting the cards and their meanings. Instead of relying solely on memorized meanings, allow your intuition to guide you in understanding the story the cards tell.

To enhance your intuition, practice makes perfect. Meditate before your tarot readings to clear your mind and open yourself up to the intuitive messages the cards offer. Trust yourself and your instincts. Your intuition will likely become a significant aspect of your tarot readings with practice.

Understanding Card Interactions - Concepts Of Cards

Another important aspect of reading tarot spreads is understanding how different cards interact with one another. Each card has its meaning, but the meaning can change depending on the cards surrounding it. This holistic approach to understanding the story told within the spread requires a sharp analytical eye.

To improve your understanding of card interactions, study common card combinations and how they enhance or alter one another's meanings. Additionally, pay close attention to the overall theme that emerges from the cards in your spread. Remember that context is crucial to interpreting a tarot spread accurately.

Using Reversals

Reversals—when a card appears upside down in a tarot spread—can add depth to a reading. However, some readers may find reversals intimidating or confusing. Knowing how to use reversals is essential for any tarot practitioner, whether beginner or advanced.

To integrate reversals into your readings, start by familiarizing yourself with the standard meanings of reversed cards. Remember, reversed meanings do not always imply negativity or the exact opposite of a card's upright meaning. They may signify blocked energies, internalized emotions, or a more subtle manifestation of the card's message.

Incorporating reversals into your tarot practice can enhance your readings and help you better understand the cards. Stay open to the reversed cards' messages, and remember that practice is key to feeling confident with reversals and other tarot reading aspects.

Modern Concepts

Tarot spreads offer both beginners and advanced readers various techniques to interpret cards and gain insights. Some popular options include the Five Card Tarot Spread, Celtic Cross Spread, and Past-Present-Future Spread.

When selecting a spread, individuals should consider factors such as complexity, personal preferences, and the specific question they seek to answer. With time and practice, one can experiment with various spreads to find the best approach for their unique needs.

Tarot reading is an art that takes time to perfect. Beginners should not feel discouraged if they don't grasp everything right away. Practicing regularly, trying out different spreads, and becoming familiar with the cards' meanings will gradually increase one's confidence and skill.

Ultimately, tarot spreads act as powerful tools for self-exploration, providing insights into one's thoughts, emotions, and actions. As readers continue their journey, they will undoubtedly come across new spreads and techniques that resonate with their intuition and enhance their tarot reading experience.