What is Tarot?

Tarot is a powerful tool for self-reflection, personal growth, and gaining insight into life’s questions. A standard tarot deck contains 78 cards divided into two main groups: the Major Arcana (22 cards) and the Minor Arcana (56 cards). Each card carries rich symbolism and meaning that can help guide your understanding of situations, emotions, and possibilities.

Choosing Your First Deck

The most important thing about choosing your first tarot deck is finding one that resonates with you visually and intuitively. The Rider-Waite-Smith deck is the most popular choice for beginners because its imagery is rich with symbolism that’s easy to interpret. Other excellent beginner options include the Modern Witch Tarot and the Wild Unknown Tarot.

Understanding the Card Structure

The Major Arcana consists of 22 cards numbered 0-21, representing significant life events, spiritual lessons, and major themes. Cards like The Fool, The Magician, and The World tell the story of the soul’s journey through life.

The Minor Arcana consists of 56 cards divided into four suits: Wands (fire/passion), Cups (water/emotions), Swords (air/intellect), and Pentacles (earth/material). Each suit contains cards numbered Ace through 10, plus four court cards: Page, Knight, Queen, and King.

Your First Reading

Start with a simple one-card daily draw. Each morning, shuffle your deck while thinking about the day ahead, then draw a single card. Spend a few minutes studying the imagery and reflecting on how its meaning might apply to your day. This daily practice builds your intuitive connection with the cards and helps you learn their meanings naturally.

Tips for Beginners

Keep a tarot journal to record your daily draws and readings. Don’t worry about memorising every card meaning right away — let your intuition guide you. There are no wrong interpretations in tarot. Trust yourself, be patient with the learning process, and remember that tarot is a personal journey of self-discovery.

Continue Your Tarot Journey

Now that you know the basics, take the next step in your tarot practice:

Your Starter Kit

Kick off your tarot journey with a reliable deck like the Radiant Rider-Waite or the intuitive Biddy Tarot Deck. Grab a beginner-friendly book from our books and guides section, and consider a gift set if you want everything in one package.

Once your deck arrives, learn the meaning of each card, try our five essential beginner spreads, and explore oracle decks when you’re ready to expand your practice.

Continue Reading