THE WHOLE DECK
78 Cards
Tarot began as a card game. Today its imagery is also used for storytelling, interpretation and personal reflection.
The Tarot Journal
A thoughtful introduction to the cards, their symbols and your own reading practice.
START YOUR TAROT JOURNEY
A Little Knowledge.
A New Perspective.
Discover the structure of a tarot deck, get to know its four suits, and try a simple reading for reflection. Start with curiosity — you do not need to memorise every card.
Start with the Basics →
Inside a Tarot Deck
A standard tarot deck has 78 cards. Some contemporary decks add extra cards or rename the suits.
THE BIG PICTURE
22 Major Arcana
Cards such as The Fool, The Hermit and The World sit outside the four suits. In modern readings, they often invite reflection on broader themes and transitions.
EVERYDAY EXPERIENCE
56 Minor Arcana
Four suits contain 14 cards each: Ace through Ten, plus four court cards. Many decks name the court cards Page, Knight, Queen and King.
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Meet the Four Suits
These are common associations in Rider–Waite–Smith-style reading traditions, not fixed rules. Your deck’s guidebook may offer a different perspective.
FIRE · CREATIVE ENERGY
Wands
Often associated with initiative, motivation and creative action. A reflection prompt: What would I like to begin?
WATER · FEELINGS
Cups
Often associated with emotions, relationships and connection. A reflection prompt: What feelings need my attention?
AIR · THOUGHT
Swords
Often associated with ideas, communication and difficult choices. A reflection prompt: What could I look at more clearly?
EARTH · DAILY LIFE
Pentacles
Also called Coins or Disks in some decks. Often associated with practical matters, resources and routines. A reflection prompt: What small action would support me?
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Your First Reading
Keep it simple. Use the cards as prompts for reflection, rather than instructions you must follow.
01 · Ask an Open Question
Try “What could help me approach today thoughtfully?” Choose a question about your own choices, rather than trying to establish facts about another person.
02 · Draw One Card
Shuffle in a way that feels comfortable and draw a card. Notice the colours, figures and mood before reading the guidebook. There is no required ritual.
03 · Reflect & Write
Note what stands out, compare it with the guidebook, and write one possible takeaway. You can disagree with an interpretation and choose your own next step.
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A Simple Three-Card Spread
When you feel ready, place three cards in a row and use these prompts. This is a journaling exercise, not a prediction.
1 · Notice
What is asking for my attention? Describe the image before deciding what it might mean.
2 · Consider
What other perspective could I explore? Let the second card suggest a question, not a verdict.
3 · Choose
What small, realistic step can I take? Ground your reflection in the information and choices available to you.
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Questions Beginners Often Ask
Do I need to memorise all 78 cards?⌄
No. Begin with one card at a time and use the guidebook included with your deck. Recording your observations can help you learn gradually.
Do I have to read reversed cards?⌄
No. Some readers interpret upside-down cards differently; others read every card upright. Choose a consistent approach and consult your deck’s guidebook.
Does a difficult-looking card mean something bad will happen?⌄
No card establishes that a future event will occur. Dramatic imagery can be explored symbolically, and interpretations vary. If a reading makes you anxious, put the cards aside and return to what you know from real life.
How should I choose my first deck?⌄
Look for images you can comfortably observe, readable card names, a size that suits your hands and a guidebook you can use. Check the product description for the exact contents and language before ordering.
How do I care for my cards?⌄
Use clean, dry hands, avoid moisture and direct sunlight, and store the deck in its box or a suitable pouch. Follow any care instructions supplied by the maker.
Can tarot make important decisions for me?⌄
Tarot can be used for creative reflection, but it cannot verify facts or guarantee outcomes. Keep important decisions grounded in reliable information and appropriate professional advice.
Keep Exploring
Learn at your own pace, with room for curiosity.
A History of Tarot
Explore historical cards and their origins with the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Read at the V&A →Understand Your Deck
An example publisher guide to card structure and reading traditions. Your own deck may use different names and interpretations.
Publisher Guide (PDF) →Find Your First Deck
Browse the collection and choose artwork, format and a guidebook that feel right for you.
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Letters From Ceremoire
Stay in touch for new stories, inspiration and collection updates.