Tarot From Scratch · Lesson 5 of 5

Designing a spread that fits the question

Most bad readings are bad spreads. Build positions from the question, not from a book.

9 minute read

A spread is a set of questions you are asking the deck, and a Celtic Cross asked of 'should I text him back' is ten answers to a question that needed two. Position design is the most undervalued skill in tarot.

Build from the question. A decision needs option A, option B, and the cost of each. A stuck situation needs the root, the hidden factor and the first step. A relationship needs you, them, and the space between — three cards, not eleven.

Write the position meanings down before you draw. If you decide what a position means after seeing the card, you are not reading; you are negotiating with yourself, and the reading will tell you what you already wanted to hear.

Key points

  • · Positions are questions — write them before drawing
  • · Three to five cards answer most real questions
  • · Never redefine a position after seeing its card

Exercise · Build one

Take a live question and design a four-position spread for it. Name each position in under eight words, then draw.

Spread builder

Check yourself

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