First steps
Everything you need to start reading tarot: what the cards are, how to do your first spread and how to interpret without fear.
20 guides in this category
What is tarot and how does it work?
Learn what tarot is, how its 78 cards are organized, and why the deck is used as a tool for self-knowledge and reflection.
How do you shuffle tarot cards?
Learn how to shuffle tarot cards without bending them, how long to shuffle, and what to do with cards that jump out of the deck.
How do you ask a good question in tarot?
See how to word open, clear questions for tarot, which ones to avoid, and ready-made examples to start a more useful reading.
What do reversed cards mean in tarot?
Understand what reversed cards are, the most common ways to interpret them, and how beginners can get started without using them.
How do you do your first tarot spread, step by step?
A step-by-step guide to your first tarot spread: set up your space, word your question, draw three cards, and interpret them without rushing.
How do you choose your first tarot deck?
Compare the Rider-Waite-Smith, the Tarot de Marseille and independent artist decks, and learn how to choose your first tarot deck.
How do you read tarot without memorizing card meanings?
Learn to read tarot through images, numbers and symbols, using a simple four-question method that helps you interpret any card in your spread.
How do you keep a tarot journal and record your readings?
See what to write in a tarot journal, a simple recording template, and how to reread your readings to learn from them and spot patterns.
What are the most common mistakes for tarot beginners?
Learn the most common mistakes of new tarot readers, like repeating the question, seeking certainty and using complex spreads, and how to avoid them.
How can you tell if a tarot reading was useful?
See practical criteria for judging whether a tarot reading was useful: clarity, a possible action, honesty and respect for your autonomy.
How do you prepare a new tarot deck before your first reading?
Learn how to prepare a new tarot deck: get to know the cards, shuffle patiently and build a simple habit before your very first reading.
What should you ask the tarot in your first reading?
Not sure what to ask the tarot the first time? Learn how to choose an open, safe and useful question, with examples you can try today.
How do you read a tarot card's image before looking up its meaning?
Learn to notice the colors, figures and gestures on a tarot card before consulting the guide, and to build your own reading from the very start.
How many tarot cards should a beginner learn first?
You don't need to study all 78 cards at once. Learn how many cards to learn first and how to grow your repertoire gradually, without rushing.
How do you study a tarot card in 15 minutes?
A 15-minute method for studying one tarot card at a time: observe it, read the meaning, connect it to your life and note what stayed with you.
What is the difference between reading tarot for yourself and for other people?
Reading tarot for yourself and for others is different: see what changes in objectivity, responsibility and care, and when you might be ready to start.
What should you do when a tarot card seems wrong or makes no sense?
Drew a card that seems wrong for your question? Learn how to reread the image, look at the context and use the discomfort as a clue for reflection.
How do you start reading the court cards in tarot?
Court cards confuse a lot of people. Here is a simple way to start reading them, understanding the Page, Knight, Queen and King by suit.
How do you build a simple weekly tarot practice routine?
Build a weekly tarot routine that fits your schedule: card of the day, a short study, one larger spread and a journal review, with no pressure.
Do I need a gift, psychic ability or intuition to read tarot?
Do you need a gift or psychic ability to read tarot? See what the practice really requires and how to develop your reading with study and attention.