What Is a Tarot Spread
What a tarot spread is: types, positions, and how a reading is structured from the layout.
A spread is the layout where cards are placed. Each position has a role (past, present, obstacle, advice, etc.), and the whole pattern tells the story.
Types of spreads
Common formats include one card, three cards (past/present/future), a simple cross, and larger spreads like the Celtic Cross. The size matches the depth of the question.
Choosing a spread
Focused questions often need fewer cards. Complex situations with many moving parts may benefit from larger spreads that hold more context.
Frequently asked questions
How many cards are in a spread?
It depends. Spreads can use 1, 3, 5, 7, 10, or more cards. Common choices are 1 (quick focus), 3 (timeline), and 10 (Celtic Cross).
What is the Celtic Cross?
It is a ten-card spread with fixed positions covering the present situation, influences, past and future tendencies, hopes and fears, and an outcome line.