The Reading Process

The Tarot is normally used to provide a reading in which a particular question is explored or the querent's life in general is considered. The whole process of performing a reading should be approached with a respectful, open and somewhat meditative frame of mind. It is best if the cards used are those that the reader is comfortable and familiar with and which are employed solely for readings, not for games or trivia. Broadly speaking there are two main stages to the reading process: preparation and interpretation.

Preparing a Reading

Preparation involves determining the nature of the reading (general or specific) and consequently the particular spread to be used. Some spreads are better suited to answering particular questions, whereas others lend themselves to more general readings. Once the spread has been determined, the cards are selected at random and arranged according to the strictures of the spread. The whole process is described in more detail in Preparing a Tarot Reading.

Interpreting a Reading

After the cards have been selected and laid out face-down, each card is turned over in sequence and interpreted according to its position and relation to other cards in the spread. Some readers prefer to lay all cards face-up from the start, but the more useful method is to allow the cards to unfold the story of the reading as they are turned up one by one, then to reassess the reading as a whole once all cards are on view. The art and science of interpretation is described in more detail in Interpreting a Tarot Reading.

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