A three-card spread is the most useful tarot spread for beginners. Lay three cards from left to right, give each position a meaning and read them as one short story.
Five three-card spreads
| Spread | Card 1 | Card 2 | Card 3 | Use it for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Past, present, future | What led here | Where you are | Where it is heading | An overview |
| Situation, obstacle, advice | What is going on | What is in the way | What helps | A problem |
| Option A, option B, what to consider | The first path | The second path | What matters most | A decision |
| You, the other person, the connection | Your side | Their side | What is between you | A relationship |
| Start, stop, continue | Begin doing | Let go of | Keep doing | Work and habits |
How to read three cards together
- Look before you read. Which way do the figures face? Which colors repeat?
- Read each card in its position. One sentence per card is enough.
- Connect them. Tell the three sentences as a story with a beginning, a middle and an end.
- Notice the mix. Many major arcana cards suggest big themes. Many cards of one suit point to that area of life, see The minor arcana suits explained.
An example
Question: “How can I get started on my project?” Cards: Eight of Pentacles, Four of Cups, The Fool in a situation, obstacle and advice spread.
- Situation: you have the skill and are willing to work (Eight of Pentacles).
- Obstacle: you are tired of the idea before you begin (Four of Cups).
- Advice: start small and treat it as an experiment (The Fool).
Tips
- Decide the positions before you draw.
- Keep the question to one sentence.
- Write the reading down. Use our tarot journal page.
Cards are a tool for reflection. They do not predict the future, and the decision is always your own.
Should I read reversed cards in a spread?
Only if you have decided to before you shuffle. See Reversed tarot cards explained.
What comes after three cards?
Add a fourth card as an “outcome” or “advice” card, or learn a larger spread such as the Celtic Cross.