When tarot is read, the querent – the person asking the question – focuses on their intention, and then the cards or tiles are laid out in a certain order to reveal the answers. The pattern and order that the tarot is revealed is called the layout, and each place in the layout is called a house. Each house addresses a different part of the question, so the meaning of each tarot element is interpreted through the lens of that house. All of the houses read in order should tell a cohesive story.

As an example, if someone were doing a reading on a relationship and the Devil showed up in the Fourth House (Complications), it would imply that there are other commitments (or addictions or bad habits) interfering with the stability of the relationship. However, if that same archetype showed up in the Eighth House describing what the second person is willing to give up for the relationship, then it would suggest that the second person is willing to break free from whatever bad habits they have to give the relationship their priority.

We’ve curated a nice collection of layouts that you can use as needed. As you learn to use them and become more familiar with how each layout tells its story, you may come to develop ideas about different layouts on your own. If this happens, make sure to write down exactly what you’re expecting from each house and in which order each tarot element should be revealed. Your readings will be much more effective if based on consistency.

  • Classic Celtic Cross
  • Circle of Life
  • Relationships
  • Three House Draw