How to Learn Tarot Reading from Scratch: A Complete Beginner’s Guide to Start Reading Cards with Confidence
Introduction: Tarot Reading is Intuition, Not Magic
Tarot reading isn’t about predicting the future with supernatural powers. It’s about connecting with intuition, gaining clarity, and guiding decisions - for yourself or others. If you’ve always been drawn to cards, symbols, or spiritual guidance, learning tarot can be a deeply personal and fulfilling journey.And no, you don’t need to be "born gifted." Anyone can learn with the right mindset and regular practice.
Step 1: Choose the Right Tarot Deck
The most common deck to start with is the **Rider-Waite Tarot**. It’s beginner-friendly, rich with symbolism, and most tutorials are based on it.Tips:
- Choose a deck that feels visually appealing to you
- Don’t overthink it - your connection grows with time
- Optional: Keep a pouch or box to store your deck safely
Step 2: Understand the Structure of the Tarot
Tarot has 78 cards, divided into two parts:- Major Arcana (22 cards): These reflect life-changing events and bigger energies (e.g., The Fool, The Empress, The Tower)
- Minor Arcana (56 cards): Daily life and practical situations - divided into 4 suits: Cups, Pentacles, Swords, and Wands
Step 3: Start Learning the Card Meanings
You don’t need to memorize all 78 cards at once. Take your time.Start With:
- The Fool’s Journey (Major Arcana storyline)
- The 4 suits and what they represent: emotions, money, thoughts, and actions
- Card keywords: upright and reversed meanings
Step 4: Practice Simple Spreads
Start with easy spreads that give structure to your readings.Try:
- One-card pull – for daily energy or reflection
- Three-card spread – Past, Present, Future
- Situation / Action / Outcome
Step 5: Learn to Ask the Right Questions
Tarot works best with open-ended questions. Avoid "yes or no" questions at first.Good examples:
- "What energy surrounds my current relationship?"
- "What is blocking me from moving forward?"
- "What do I need to focus on this week?"
Step 6: Trust Your Intuition
Reading tarot is not just about textbook meanings. Pay attention to:- Your first thoughts when you see the card
- The mood or emotions it brings up
- Visual symbols or details you notice
Step 7: Keep Learning and Practicing
Tarot is a lifelong skill. Let it grow with you.Use:
- YouTube channels and Instagram accounts
- Books like "Seventy-Eight Degrees of Wisdom" or "Modern Tarot"
- Tarot journals or apps for guided daily pulls