Tarot 101: Basic Tarot Spreads: 5 Simple Starter Spreads

A tarot "spread" is simply the layout you use when drawing cards. The spread shapes the story: it assigns meaning to each position so you can read the cards in context. You don't need elaborate patterns to start: some of the simplest spreads are the most effective.

Here are a few foundational spreads every beginner should know. 

Pictures coming soon!

3-Card Spread

This is the most versatile beginner spread. You draw three cards in a row and assign a meaning to each position. The classic version is:

1. Past
2. Present
3. Future

But it's flexible. You can also use it for:

• Situation · Challenge · Advice
• Mind · Body · Spirit
• You · Other Person · Relationship

Keep them evenly spaced in a straight horizontal line for maximum clarity.

Why it Works: The power of the 3-card spread is adaptability. It gives you a contained story without overwhelm, and you can change the positions depending on your question.

1-Card Daily Draw

The simplest spread is also one of the most powerful. You pull a single card and reflect on how it applies to your day. This builds familiarity with the deck and keeps you from overthinking.

How to use it:

• Ask a focused question like "What do I need to keep in mind today?"
• Pull one card and sit with its imagery.
• Journal one or two lines about how it connects to your current mood, tasks, or interactions.

Why it works: The daily draw teaches consistency. Over time, you'll start to notice patterns: certain cards repeating during specific moods or situations. It's also a safe way to build confidence without needing a full spread.

Celtic Cross (Short Version)

The Celtic Cross is one of the oldest and most detailed tarot spreads. The full version uses 10 cards, but beginners can work with a simplified 6-card version for clarity.

Layout:

1. The Situation (core issue)
2. The Challenge (what blocks or complicates it)
3. Past Influences (what led here)
4. Present Energy (current dynamics)
5. Advice (what to focus on or do)
6. Outcome (likely direction if advice is followed)

Why it works:

 This spread gives a "big picture" view: it shows not just where you are but also what shaped it, what's in the way, and what's possible if you act with awareness. The shortened layout avoids overwhelm while still offering depth.

Decision Spread

When you're stuck between two options, this 4-card spread helps compare them clearly.

Layout:

1. Option A (what it offers or leads to)
2. Option B (what it offers or leads to)
3. Hidden Factor (what you may be overlooking)
4. Guidance (what aligns best with your growth)

Why it works: Instead of predicting "the right choice," this spread highlights the dynamics of each path. It shows what you gain, what you risk, and what matters most to consider. This makes it easier to choose with clarity rather than fear or guesswork.

Self-Care Spread

This 4-card layout is designed for checking in with yourself when you're stressed, drained, or just needing a reset.

Layout:

1. Mind — what's weighing on my thoughts?
2. Body — what's my physical state asking for?
3. Heart — what emotions need attention?
4. Spirit — what restores my energy and sense of meaning?

Why it works: The Self-Care Spread gives a snapshot of your overall well-being. It encourages balance by reminding you to look beyond just one layer of stress. Often the message is simple: slow down, hydrate, or talk to someone, but seeing it reflected in the cards helps you take it seriously.

Wrap-Up

You don't need complicated layouts to get meaningful tarot insights. These five spreads, from the one-card daily draw to the short Celtic Cross, give you a foundation for almost any kind of question. As you practice, you'll find which ones you return to most often and how to adjust them to fit your own style.

The key is consistency: the more you use these spreads, the more natural reading the cards will feel. Over time, you'll build confidence in your interpretations and deepen your relationship with the deck.

Next Steps

• Start small: pull one card daily or try a 3-card spread once a week.
• Save this guide as a reference and experiment with each layout when the situation calls for it.
• Explore the rest of the Tarot 101 series for more clarity on suits, numbers, and the Major Arcana.

Each spread is a tool: the wisdom comes from how you engage with it.

Good luck on your Tarot journey!

-StarredSprig 💜