Learning to read tarot cards is a journey that combines intuition, study, and practice. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to deepen your understanding, here’s a comprehensive guide to get you started on your tarot reading journey.

Choosing the Right Deck

Many people recommend starting with a tarot deck that has meanings printed on the cards. However, I believe it’s best to start with a classic Rider Waite tarot deck, preferably in pocket size. The smaller cards fit comfortably in your hands, making them easier to shuffle and handle.

Essential Reading Material

To accompany your tarot deck, I highly recommend the book “Tarot Plain and Simple” by Anthony Louis. This book will serve as your study guide, providing clear and straightforward explanations of each card’s meaning.

Step-by-Step Learning Process

1. Learn the Meanings of the Cards

Begin by learning one to two meanings for each of the 78 cards in the tarot deck. This foundational knowledge is crucial for accurate readings.

2. Practice Two-Card Combinations

Once you are familiar with the individual card meanings, start practicing with two-card combinations. Ask a question, lay out two cards, and interpret their combined meanings to answer the question. Repeat this process until you feel confident in your interpretations.

3. Learn a Spread

After mastering two-card combinations, progress to learning a spread. Common spreads include the three-card spread, five-card spread, and the Celtic Cross (ten-card spread). Each position in a spread has a specific meaning, and your goal is to weave these positions into a cohesive story that answers your question.

Practical Application

1. Reading for Yourself

Begin by doing readings for yourself. This practice helps you connect with your intuition and become comfortable with the cards. Ensure your readings tell a coherent story and make sense.

2. Reading for Others

Once you feel confident with personal readings, start practicing on friends, family, and co-workers. Their feedback will be invaluable in honing your skills. If they consistently say your readings are accurate, you know you’re ready to read professionally.

Going Professional

1. Starting Out

Consider starting on psychic websites that hire tarot readers. These platforms may pay less than a dollar per minute, but they offer a high volume of clients, providing ample practice opportunities. You’ll receive feedback and ratings, helping you improve quickly.

2. Building a Reputation

Not all clients will be happy with your readings, especially if the outcome isn’t what they wanted to hear. However, it’s crucial to remain truthful and accurate in your readings, even if the message isn’t positive. This honesty will build your reputation as a reliable reader.

3. Advancing Your Career

Once you’ve gained enough experience and built a solid reputation, you can move on to higher-paying platforms or start your own practice. By this point, you’ll have the confidence and skills to offer valuable readings to your clients.

Conclusion

Reading tarot cards is an art that blends intuition, knowledge, and practice. By starting with the right tools, studying diligently, and practicing regularly, you’ll develop the skills needed to provide insightful and accurate readings. Remember, the journey to becoming a proficient tarot reader is ongoing, and every reading is an opportunity to learn and grow. Happy reading!