Tarot spreads
A spread gives each card a job. Here are the layouts this site offers, what each one is good for, and a link to draw it now.
One card 1 card
A daily theme or a quick check-in. The simplest and one of the most useful spreads.
Draw this spreadPast · Present · Future 3 cards
The classic story of a situation: what led here, where it stands, where it is heading.
Positions: Past → Present → Future
Draw this spreadSituation · Action · Outcome 3 cards
Practical problem-solving. The middle card suggests what to do.
Positions: Situation → Action → Outcome
Draw this spreadLove: you · them · connection 3 cards
For a relationship or crush: both sides and what is between you.
Positions: You → Them → Connection
Draw this spreadCareer: now · block · next step 3 cards
Where work stands, what gets in the way and one step to take.
Positions: Now → Block → Next step
Draw this spread
Choosing the right spread
Match the size of the spread to the size of the question. A yes/no card for a quick decision, three cards for a situation you want to understand, ten for something tangled with several people and pressures in it. More cards is not more accurate; it is more to interpret.
Whatever spread you use, decide the positions before you draw. Deciding afterwards makes it too easy to fit the cards to the answer you wanted.
Questions people ask
What is a tarot spread?
A layout that gives each card a position with a meaning, such as "past" or "the challenge". The same card reads differently depending on where it lands.
What is the best tarot spread for beginners?
One-card and three-card spreads. They are small enough to read in a few minutes and teach you how position changes meaning.
Can I make my own spread?
Yes. Decide how many cards you want and write a clear question for each position before you draw. Many readers design spreads for specific situations.