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Are you ready to dive headfirst into the mystical (and slightly intimidating) world of tarot? Don’t worry, you won’t need a crystal ball or a robe. Tarot has been around for centuries, and it’s not just for fortune-tellers or Halloween costumes. It’s for anyone looking to gain clarity, self-awareness, or even just a bit of fun. Whether you’re curious about how to start reading tarot or looking for a beginner’s guide, you’ve come to the right place. This isn’t some dry, academic explanation—we’re keeping it real, accessible, and maybe even a little bit funny.
Tarot isn’t about predicting your inevitable doom (or winning lottery numbers). It’s more like holding up a mirror to your subconscious and saying, “What’s really going on here?” By mastering the tarot basics, you’ll learn to use the cards as a tool for self-reflection and insight. Let’s crack open this magical deck and see what the fuss is all about.
The History of Tarot for Beginners

Understanding Tarot Cards Through History
Picture this: It’s the 15th century in Italy. Fancy nobles are sitting around, sipping wine, and playing a card game called Tarocchi. Yes, tarot started as a game. No, they weren’t predicting the future of the Renaissance. These early decks were ornate, hand-painted, and a total flex for the wealthy.
Fast forward a few centuries to 18th-century France, where some very imaginative occultists decided these cards were more than just a pastime. They began assigning symbolic meanings to the images, claiming ties to ancient Egyptian wisdom (spoiler: they made that bit up). But hey, who doesn’t love a little mystique?
From Card Games to a Beginner Tarot Guide
Enter Antoine Court de Gébelin, a French writer who looked at a deck of cards and thought, “These must be ancient Egyptian symbols.” Spoiler alert: They weren’t. But his ideas sparked a fascination that turned tarot into the spiritual tool we know today. Then there was Jean-Baptiste Alliette, aka Etteilla, who took things up a notch by creating the first guide to tarot readings. Think of him as the original tarot influencer, minus Instagram.
While their theories might have been a little far-fetched, these figures laid the groundwork for how we interpret tarot today. For beginners, understanding this history adds a layer of appreciation—and a bit of a chuckle. It’s a reminder that tarot isn’t set in stone; it’s a living, evolving practice.
How Tarot Became a Tool for Self-Reflection
Now let’s skip ahead to the 20th century, where things get really interesting. Enter Carl Jung, the Swiss psychologist who gave us the term “archetypes.” Jung believed that the symbols in the Major Arcana were universal—representing themes and experiences we all share, like love, loss, and transformation. Thanks, Carl, for making tarot sound fancy enough to talk about at dinner parties.
These days, tarot is less about fortune-telling and more about personal growth. It’s like journaling, but with prettier pictures. When you draw a card, it’s not about fate; it’s about reflecting on what’s happening in your life and what you can learn from it. So, while the history of tarot might be a mix of fact and fiction, its power as a tool for self-reflection is very real.
The Structure of a Tarot Deck

Understanding Tarot Cards: Major Arcana and Minor Arcana
Let’s break this down. A tarot deck has 78 cards, split into two main categories: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. Think of the Major Arcana as the headliners—big, bold cards like The Fool, The Lovers, and Death (don’t panic, it’s not as grim as it sounds). These 22 cards deal with life’s big themes and transformative moments. If the tarot deck were a movie, these would be the Oscar-winning performances.
Then there’s the Minor Arcana: 56 cards that cover the day-to-day stuff. They’re divided into four suits: Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles. Each suit has its own vibe and story to tell, like your favourite TV show spin-offs.
The Fool’s Journey: A Story of Self-Discovery
If the Major Arcana is the heart of the tarot deck, then the Fool’s Journey is its soul. The journey begins with The Fool, an adventurous (and slightly naive) figure who represents all of us at the start of something new. The Major Arcana tells the story of The Fool’s growth and transformation as they navigate life’s lessons, challenges, and triumphs. It’s like the hero’s journey, but with more mystery and fewer dragons.
The Conscious Realm: The External World
The first part of the Fool’s Journey covers the Conscious Realm, where The Fool encounters external influences and life lessons. Cards like The Magician, The High Priestess, and The Empress represent the tools, intuition, and nurturing forces we discover early on. This phase is all about understanding the world around us and learning how to navigate it.
The Unconscious Realm: Inner Growth
As The Fool ventures deeper, they enter the Unconscious Realm. This is where things get introspective. Cards like Strength and The Hermit encourage self-reflection and inner growth. It’s less about what’s happening outside and more about who you are inside. Think of it as the tarot equivalent of a late-night heart-to-heart with yourself.
The Superconscious Realm: Spiritual Awakening
The final leg of the journey takes The Fool into the Superconscious Realm, where they confront larger truths and spiritual enlightenment. Cards like The Star, The Moon, and The World represent the culmination of their experiences. This phase is about connecting to something greater than yourself and finding a sense of wholeness.
The Fool’s Journey isn’t just about The Fool; it’s about all of us. We’re constantly moving through these realms, learning, growing, and evolving. Understanding this narrative can add depth and meaning to your tarot readings, giving you a bigger picture of how the cards interact.
The Four Suits: A Beginner’s Guide to Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles
- Wands: These fiery cards are all about passion, creativity, and action. If you draw a Wand, it’s like the universe saying, “Get off the couch and make things happen.”
- Cups: Cups are all about emotions, relationships, and intuition. They’re like the heart emoji of the tarot deck, asking you to check in with your feelings and connections.
- Swords: Representing thoughts, challenges, and clarity, Swords are the tough-love cards. They’re here to cut through the noise and help you see things clearly, even if it stings a little.
- Pentacles: These earthy cards focus on material things like work, money, and health. When Pentacles show up, it’s time to get practical and sort your life out.
Each suit tells its own story, and together, they create a full picture of life’s ups and downs. Understanding the suits is like learning the alphabet of tarot. Once you’ve got it, everything starts to make sense.
Understanding Court Card Tarot Meanings
Each suit includes four court cards: Page, Knight, Queen, and King. Think of them as characters in a story. The Pages are the curious newbies, full of fresh energy and potential. Knights are the action heroes, charging forward with determination (sometimes without thinking it through). Queens embody wisdom and intuition, while Kings represent mastery and authority.
Interpreting court cards can feel a bit tricky at first. Are they a person in your life? An aspect of yourself? The answer is usually both. For example, if you pull the Queen of Cups, it might be encouraging you to embrace empathy and emotional intelligence. Or it might be pointing to someone in your life who embodies those traits.
The key to understanding court cards is to see them as archetypes rather than fixed roles. They’re flexible, which means they can adapt to your question or situation. And let’s be honest, sometimes they show up just to mess with you. But hey, that’s part of the fun.
How to Choose Your First Tarot Deck

So, you’re ready to jump into the world of tarot, but there’s just one problem: there are so many decks. It’s like walking into a bookstore without a clue what to read, except the books are covered in mystical imagery, and one of them might just hold the answers to the universe. No pressure.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Deck
Your first tarot deck is like a partner for this journey. It’s going to be your companion as you learn how to start reading tarot and connect with the cards. The deck you choose should resonate with you, not just visually but emotionally. If you find yourself thinking, “Wow, these cards feel like they were made for me,” you’re on the right track.
The Rider-Waite-Smith deck is often recommended for beginners. Why? Because its imagery is rich, straightforward, and easy to interpret. Plus, most beginner tarot guides and resources use this deck as a reference, which makes learning a whole lot easier. That being said, don’t feel pressured to pick it just because it’s popular—it’s your journey, and your deck should feel personal.
Things to Look for in Your First Tarot Deck
- Artwork: The art should speak to you. If you’re not vibing with the illustrations, it’ll be harder to connect. Look for a deck that feels inviting and aligns with your aesthetic.
- Symbolism: Make sure the deck has clear, intuitive symbolism—you’ll be spending a lot of time understanding tarot cards, so clarity is key. Complex or abstract decks might be better for seasoned readers.
- Guidebook: Many decks come with a booklet that explains tarot card meanings. For beginners, a detailed guide can be a lifesaver when you’re staring at a card and thinking, “What does this even mean?”
- Feel: Yes, the vibes matter. Hold the deck (if you can) and see if it feels right in your hands. Is it easy to shuffle? Does it feel comfortable? Trust your instincts.
Busting the “Gift Rule”
There’s a common myth that your first tarot deck should be gifted to you. While that’s a lovely idea, it’s also completely unnecessary. You don’t need to wait for Aunt Mildred to stumble upon a deck at her local crystal shop. Buy the deck that feels right to you and don’t look back. Remember, tarot is about empowering yourself, and that includes choosing your tools.
How to Get to Know Your Tarot Cards

Once you’ve chosen your first tarot deck, it’s time to build a relationship with it. Yes, it’s a bit like dating. You’ll want to get to know your cards inside and out before diving into readings. Tarot basics start with familiarity, so let’s break the ice.
Start with a Deck Interview
One fun way to break the ice with your new deck is by doing a “deck interview” spread. This is a simple tarot spread designed to help you understand your deck’s personality. Ask questions like:
- What kind of reader will you help me become?
- What are your strengths?
- What are your limitations?
Pull cards for each question and take some time to interpret their meanings. This not only helps you connect with your deck but also gives you practice understanding tarot cards. Plus, it’s a great way to start exploring how the deck’s energy feels to you.
Daily One-Card Pulls
One of the best ways to start reading tarot is to draw a single card each day. Think of it as your tarot card of the day—a bite-sized insight into what you might encounter or need to focus on. Take a few minutes to reflect on the card’s meaning and how it might apply to your day. Over time, you’ll start recognising patterns and developing a more intuitive connection to your deck.
This daily ritual also helps you get comfortable with interpreting tarot card meanings without the pressure of a full reading. It’s like learning to swim in the shallow end of the pool—safe, simple, and low-stakes.
Journaling Your Tarot Journey
Keeping a tarot journal is an excellent habit for beginners. Write down the cards you pull, your interpretations, and any patterns you notice. Over time, this will deepen your understanding of tarot card meanings and help you track your growth as a reader. You might even notice recurring cards showing up, which can highlight themes or lessons that require your attention.
Don’t worry about being perfect; your journal is a space for exploration and reflection. Add drawings, keywords, or even stick figures if that’s what helps you connect with the cards. The key is to make it your own.
How to Read Tarot Cards: A Step-by-Step Beginner Tarot Guide

Reading tarot cards might seem overwhelming at first, but it’s like learning to cook: start simple, and you’ll build your skills over time. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.
Step 1: Create a Sacred Space
Before you shuffle your deck, set the mood. You don’t need to light a hundred candles or summon the spirits of your ancestors, but a clean, calm space can make a world of difference. This is your moment to tune in and focus. Whether it’s a quiet corner of your home or just clearing off your desk, creating a sacred space helps you connect with the cards and your intention.
Step 2: Shuffle and Draw Your Cards
Shuffling is more than just mixing up the deck. It’s a chance to infuse your energy into the cards. Think about your question or intention as you shuffle. When you’re ready, draw the cards—you can pull just one for a simple tarot spread or several for a more detailed reading. Take your time here; there’s no rush.
Step 3: Interpret the Cards
Now comes the fun (and sometimes intimidating) part: interpreting the cards. Start with their traditional meanings, but don’t be afraid to let your intuition guide you. The images on the cards are designed to spark your imagination and help you see connections. Remember, tarot basics aren’t about memorising definitions; they’re about connecting with the imagery and messages.
If you’re unsure about a card’s meaning, don’t panic. Refer to your deck’s guidebook or your tarot journal for inspiration. Over time, you’ll develop your own interpretations that feel natural and personal.
Step 4: Use Simple Tarot Spreads
For beginners, simple spreads are your best friend. The one-card pull is great for daily guidance, while the three-card spread—past, present, future—is perfect for exploring a specific question. These spreads give structure to your reading and make interpretation easier. Don’t feel like you have to dive into complex spreads right away; mastering the basics is more important.
Step 5: Practice, Practice, Practice
Reading tarot is a skill, and like any skill, it takes practice. Don’t worry about being perfect. The more you work with your deck, the more confident you’ll become. And remember, every reader develops their own style over time. Some people lean on intuition, others on traditional meanings—and both approaches are valid.
Keep shuffling, keep learning, and most importantly, have fun with it. Tarot basics aren’t about perfection; they’re about connection and curiosity. Enjoy the process!
Simple Tarot Spreads for Beginners

What Are Simple Tarot Spreads?
Simple tarot spreads are like the starter kit of the tarot world. They’re structured layouts of cards that keep things straightforward, helping you focus on specific questions or areas of life. Think of them as your first steps into the mysterious and slightly dramatic realm of tarot—training wheels for your intuition.
By sticking to simple spreads, you’ll avoid feeling like you’re trying to crack the Da Vinci Code every time you shuffle. These spreads are all about clarity, ease, and giving you the confidence to keep going. They’re not just for beginners, either. Even seasoned readers come back to these layouts when they need a quick insight or want to simplify their practice.
The One-Card Spread: A Beginner’s Go-To
The one-card spread is the tarot equivalent of “keep it simple, stupid.” It’s perfect for quick insights, daily reflections, or when you’re not ready to wrestle with an entire spread. It’s just you, one card, and a whole world of meaning.
To use this spread, shuffle your deck while focusing on your intention. Draw one card and sit with it. What’s the imagery saying? How does it make you feel? If you pull The Fool, it’s probably telling you to take that leap of faith you’ve been overthinking. No pressure, though. The beauty of the one-card spread lies in its simplicity, but don’t mistake simplicity for lack of depth. Even one card can lead to profound insights.
If you’re new, consider pulling a daily card to get into the habit of reading regularly. It’s an easy way to build familiarity with your deck and develop your intuition. Write down what you think the card means and revisit it at the end of the day to see how it applied—you might surprise yourself.
The Three-Card Spread: Past, Present, Future
Ready to take it up a notch? The three-card spread gives you a broader perspective by exploring your past, present, and future. It’s like a mini tarot timeline that helps you see the bigger picture. This spread is fantastic for exploring specific questions or getting an overview of a situation.
Here’s how it works:
- Shuffle your deck and think about your question.
- Lay out three cards in a row.
- Interpret their positions:
- The first card is your past—what brought you here.
- The second card is your present—what’s happening now.
- The third card is your future—where things could be headed.
For example, if you’re asking about a relationship and pull the Three of Swords (past), The Lovers (present), and The Star (future), you might interpret this as healing from heartbreak, finding harmony now, and hoping for brighter days ahead. Pretty neat, right? This spread’s simplicity makes it adaptable to nearly any situation, so don’t be afraid to experiment.
The Celtic Cross Spread: For Those Ready to Go Deeper
The Celtic Cross is the drama queen of tarot spreads. It’s detailed, thorough, and perfect for when you’re ready to dive into the deep end. This spread has ten cards, each with a specific role to play. Here’s how it breaks down:
- Card 1 (The Present): Where you’re at right now.
- Card 2 (The Challenge): What’s in your way.
- Card 3 (The Past): The backstory of the situation.
- Card 4 (The Future): The immediate road ahead.
- Card 5 (Above): Your goals or conscious focus.
- Card 6 (Below): Subconscious influences.
- Card 7 (Advice): What you should consider doing.
- Card 8 (External Influences): What’s going on around you.
- Card 9 (Hopes and Fears): What you’re secretly expecting.
- Card 10 (Outcome): How it’s likely to play out.
This spread might feel like overkill at first, but it’s worth the effort. Take your time with each card and think of the reading as a full conversation, not just a quick Q&A. The Celtic Cross is ideal for exploring life’s complexities, so it’s best used when you want to dig deep into a situation or uncover hidden layers.
Tips for Using Simple Tarot Spreads Effectively
- Start Small: Master the one- and three-card spreads before jumping into something more elaborate. There’s no rush to become a tarot pro overnight.
- Set Clear Intentions: Focus on your question as you shuffle. A little clarity goes a long way in making sense of the cards.
- Write It Down: Keep a journal of your readings to track patterns and progress. Plus, it’s fun to look back and see how far you’ve come.
- Don’t Overthink: Your intuition knows what’s up, so trust your gut. Even if the meaning isn’t immediately clear, it might make sense later.
Developing Your Intuition as a Tarot Reader

How Intuition and Tarot Basics Work Together
Intuition is like the secret sauce that makes tarot magic happen. Sure, understanding tarot cards is important, but your intuition takes those meanings and makes them personal. It’s what turns a generic interpretation into something that hits home.
When you’re just starting, it’s fine to lean on guidebooks. But over time, you’ll notice certain cards evoke feelings, thoughts, or even random flashes of insight. That’s your intuition nudging you—listen to it.
Practical Exercises to Strengthen Your Intuition
- Meditate with a Card: Pick a card, sit with it, and imagine stepping into the scene. What stands out? What story is it telling you?
- Word Association: Look at a card and jot down the first words or images that pop into your head. It’s about gut reactions, not overthinking.
- Practice with Friends: Do readings for friends and see how your interpretations resonate. Feedback can boost your confidence.
Trusting Yourself: A Key Lesson for Tarot Beginners
Learning to trust yourself is the ultimate lesson in tarot. Doubts are normal, especially when you’re starting out, but there’s no “wrong” way to read tarot. Each interpretation is unique to you.
When you’re unsure, take a deep breath and go with your first impression. That little voice in your head? It usually knows what it’s talking about. Trust the process—you’ve got this.
Common Misconceptions About Tarot

Debunking Myths: Tarot Basics for Beginners
Tarot often comes with a lot of baggage—misunderstandings, stereotypes, and let’s not forget, some questionable portrayals in movies and TV. But it’s time to set the record straight. Here are some of the most common myths about tarot, debunked for your peace of mind:
Myth: You need psychic powers to read tarot.
Reality: Nope. Tarot is a skill, not a superpower. Anyone can learn it. Think of it like learning to play an instrument—your intuition gets better with practice, not by waiting for a lightning bolt from the mystical beyond.
Myth: Tarot is evil or invites bad energy.
Reality: Tarot is as evil as your coffee mug. It’s a tool. The energy it carries is what you bring to it. Set good intentions, and you’ll have a reflective, empowering experience.
Myth: Tarot predicts the future with absolute certainty.
Reality: Tarot isn’t a crystal ball. It’s more like a GPS for your current situation, highlighting possible routes and roadblocks. You’re still the driver.
Debunking these myths is a great way to start your tarot journey with an open mind and realistic expectations. Let the cards speak for themselves, not for the drama they’ve been unfairly assigned.
Is Tarot Just Fortune-Telling? A Beginner Tarot Guide
The short answer? No. The slightly longer answer? Tarot is so much more than a fortune-telling gimmick. Think of it as a reflective tool, like journaling but with more flair. The cards don’t just spit out your destiny; they help you explore your thoughts, feelings, and options.
For example, if you ask, “Will I get that promotion?” the cards won’t give you a yes or no. Instead, they’ll highlight your current strengths, potential challenges, and areas where you might need to shift your approach. It’s about reflection and empowerment, not spoon-fed answers.
So, if you’ve been hesitant because you don’t want to “see your fate,” rest easy. Tarot is about understanding your present so you can shape your future, not the other way around.
Why Understanding Tarot Cards Is About Reflection, Not Prediction
At its core, tarot is like a mirror—it reflects your inner world and helps you make sense of your outer one. The cards won’t tell you what’s going to happen in five years; instead, they’ll show you what’s happening right now and how you can navigate it.
For instance, pulling The Tower might feel ominous, but it’s less about disaster and more about transformation. It’s an invitation to reflect on what needs to change and how you can rebuild stronger. By focusing on self-awareness and personal growth, you’ll realise tarot is a tool for creating your life, not just predicting it.
When you approach tarot as a reflective practice, you’ll find it offers insights and guidance that empower you to make better decisions and embrace change with confidence.
Tarot Ethics and Best Practices

Respecting Boundaries: How to Start Reading Tarot for Others
When you’re ready to start reading tarot for others, the first rule of thumb is boundaries. Yes, tarot is powerful, but it’s also deeply personal. Respecting the space and comfort of your querent (that’s tarot-speak for the person you’re reading for) is essential.
- Ask Before You Read: Never assume someone wants a reading just because you’re holding a deck. A quick, “Would you like a reading?” shows respect and sets the tone for the session.
- Know Your Role: You’re a guide, not a guru. It’s your job to offer insights, not to dictate life decisions or predict the lottery numbers (unfortunately).
- Confidentiality Is Key: Treat what’s shared in a reading as sacred. Gossiping about someone’s cards is the quickest way to lose trust.
Empowering, Not Fear-Mongering, with Tarot Card Meanings
Let’s face it: cards like The Tower and Death have a bit of a PR problem. But as a reader, your goal is to empower, not terrify. Tarot is a tool for reflection and growth, not doom and gloom.
- Reframe the Narrative: Instead of saying, “This card spells disaster,” try something like, “This card suggests big changes, but it’s also an opportunity to rebuild.” It’s all about perspective.
- Focus on Solutions: If the cards reveal challenges, guide the querent toward actionable steps. For instance, if they’re feeling stuck (hello, Eight of Swords), explore ways they can shift their perspective and move forward.
- Skip the Absolutes: Statements like, “You’re destined to fail” are not only unhelpful—they’re irresponsible. Keep your interpretations open-ended and supportive.
Beginner Tarot Guide: Building Trust in Your Readings
Trust is everything in tarot. Whether you’re reading for yourself or others, building trust in the process is key.
- Be Honest About Your Experience: If you’re still learning, own it. Most people will appreciate your transparency and won’t expect you to have all the answers.
- Explain What You’re Doing: Walk your querent through your process. Explain why you’re shuffling a certain way or what each card position means. It makes the reading more interactive and less intimidating.
- Check In as You Go: If a card interpretation isn’t landing, ask the querent for their thoughts. Tarot is a dialogue, not a monologue.
- Stay Grounded: Avoid overpromising or making wild claims. The best readings are honest, reflective, and empowering.
Advanced Tips for Beginners

Moving Beyond Tarot Basics: What’s Next?
So, you’ve nailed the basics. You know your Cups from your Pentacles, and you’re ready for more. What’s next?
- Experiment with Reversals: Reversed cards (those that show up upside-down) add complexity to your readings. They can represent blockages, hidden challenges, or the shadow side of a card’s meaning. Start slow and see how they fit into your interpretations.
- Dive Deeper into Symbolism: Take a closer look at the imagery in your cards. Why is there a lion in Strength? What’s with all the mountains in The Fool? These details can add richness to your readings.
- Explore Other Systems: Curious about numerology, astrology, or Kabbalah? Many readers incorporate these systems into their practice to uncover new layers of meaning.
- Try New Spreads: Expand your repertoire beyond the one- and three-card spreads. Experiment with layouts like the Celtic Cross, relationship spreads, or custom designs that suit your specific questions.
How to Start Reading Tarot for Friends and Family
Reading for loved ones can be both exciting and a little nerve-wracking. Here’s how to make it a positive experience:
- Set Clear Boundaries: Be upfront about what you’re comfortable exploring. It’s okay to say no if a topic feels too heavy or personal.
- Keep It Fun: Stick to lighter topics unless your friend specifically asks for deeper insights. This keeps the experience enjoyable and avoids unnecessary drama at family dinners.
- Treat It Like a Real Reading: Even if it’s casual, approach the session with care. Create a focused, calm environment and give the reading the same respect you’d give a client.
- Encourage Collaboration: Ask for their input on the cards. This not only makes the reading more engaging but also helps you learn from their perspective.
Beginner Tarot Guide to Journaling Your Progress
Journaling is your tarot MVP. It helps you track your growth, spot patterns, and refine your interpretations.
- Make It a Habit: After each reading, take a few minutes to jot down your thoughts. Include the spread you used, the cards you pulled, and your initial impressions.
- Look for Patterns: Over time, you’ll notice recurring themes or cards that keep popping up. These patterns can offer valuable insights into your life or the energy around you.
- Get Creative: Your journal doesn’t have to be all words. Add sketches of your spreads, use colour coding, or create keywords for quick reference. Make it your own.
- Review Often: Flip back through your entries regularly. Seeing how your understanding has evolved is both inspiring and a great way to boost your confidence.
Resources for Continuing Your Tarot Journey

Top Books for Learning Tarot Basics
Diving into tarot can feel a bit overwhelming at first, but the right book can make all the difference. Here are some go-to reads that combine approachable writing with practical advice:
- “Seventy-Eight Degrees of Wisdom” by Rachel Pollack: A classic that delves into both the symbolic and practical aspects of tarot. If you want depth and inspiration, this book is a must.
- “The Ultimate Guide to Tarot” by Liz Dean: A beginner-friendly option with stunning visuals and easy-to-follow interpretations.
- “Modern Tarot” by Michelle Tea: Perfect if you’re looking for a fresh, irreverent take on tarot that blends personal stories with practical advice.
- “Simply Tarot” by Gord: (Ahem, shameless plug!) A workbook designed to demystify tarot basics and help you build confidence in your readings.
- “Simply Spreads” by Gord: An essential guide to creative tarot spreads for every occasion, helping readers expand their practice with ease.
- “Radical Tarot” by Charlie Claire Burgess: A transformative book that reimagines tarot through a queer, inclusive lens.
- “Tarot Made Easy” by Kim Arnold: A straightforward introduction to tarot that focuses on building confidence in beginners.
- “Upside Down Tarot” by Joan Bunning: A fantastic guide for understanding and working with reversed cards in your readings.
Where to Find Beginner Tarot Guides Online
The internet is brimming with resources for tarot beginners, but it’s essential to find trustworthy, informative content. Don’t forget to explore my website, which features extensive guides to each tarot card and a variety of spreads to suit different questions and needs. Here are a few other suggestions:
- Biddy Tarot: A well-known site offering free resources, detailed card meanings, and courses for beginners.
- Labyrinthos Academy: Their interactive app and website are perfect for learning on the go, with quizzes and fun visuals to help you memorise card meanings.
- YouTube: Channels like “Ethony” and “The Hermit’s Cave” provide video tutorials, walkthroughs of decks, and practical tips.
- Reddit’s r/tarot: A community-driven forum where you can ask questions, share insights, and connect with other learners.
Joining Tarot Communities: Learning with Others
Sometimes, the best way to grow is by connecting with like-minded individuals. Tarot communities offer support, shared experiences, and new perspectives. Here’s where to start:
- Local Tarot Meetups: Check platforms like Meetup.com for tarot circles or workshops in your area.
- Online Forums and Groups: Facebook groups like “Tarot Nerds” or Discord servers dedicated to tarot can be a treasure trove of advice.
- Workshops and Courses: Many tarot readers (myself included) offer live classes and practice groups, giving you hands-on experience in a supportive environment.
- Social Media: Follow tarot creators on Instagram or TikTok for daily inspiration, spreads, and tips.
Conclusion: Your First Steps with Tarot Basics
Beginner Tarot Guide Recap: From First Tarot Deck to Simple Spreads
Congratulations—you’ve taken your first steps into the fascinating world of tarot! Let’s quickly recap what we’ve covered:
- Choosing Your First Deck: Trust your instincts and pick a deck that resonates with you.
- Getting to Know Your Cards: Spend time with your deck, explore card meanings, and start with simple one- or three-card spreads.
- Developing Your Intuition: Practice exercises to build confidence and trust in your interpretations.
- Exploring Tarot Ethics: Read with empathy and empower, rather than frighten, your querents.
Why Tarot Basics Are the Key to Lifelong Learning
Tarot is more than just a tool—it’s a journey. The basics you’ve learned here are the foundation for a lifetime of growth, reflection, and discovery. As you continue, you’ll find new layers of meaning in the cards and in yourself. There’s no rush to become an expert; tarot is about enjoying the process as much as the insights.
Take Action: Start Your Tarot Journey Today!
The best way to learn tarot is by doing. Grab your deck, try a simple spread, and let the cards guide you. If you’re feeling adventurous, join a community or dive into one of the resources mentioned earlier. Remember, every reader started where you are now—curious, excited, and maybe a little nervous. Trust yourself, and enjoy the ride!