Tarot Cheat Sheet: A Quick Guide

Tarot is an ancient tool for self-reflection, intuition, and guidance. Its origins trace back to the 15th century in Europe, where it was first used as a card game before evolving into a spiritual and divinatory practice. Over time, different tarot traditions have emerged, each with its own unique symbolism and structure.

Types of Tarot Decks:

While many decks exist, the most common tarot systems include:

  • Rider-Waite-Smith (RWS) – The most widely used and beginner-friendly deck, first published in 1909. It features rich symbolism and illustrated Minor Arcana, making it easy to interpret intuitively.

  • Thoth Tarot – Created by Aleister Crowley, this deck incorporates astrology, numerology, and esoteric teachings. It has a more abstract and mystical feel.

  • Marseille Tarot – One of the oldest tarot decks, with simple, non-illustrated Minor Arcana. It relies heavily on numerology and traditional interpretations.

  • Modern & Themed Decks – Many contemporary decks reimagine tarot with diverse art styles, cultural influences, and unique interpretations, from animal-based decks to feminist or cosmic-themed ones.

Major vs. Minor Arcana:

The Tarot deck is divided into two main sections:

Major Arcana (22 cards): These represent major life themes, spiritual lessons, and turning points. Each card carries deep symbolism and often signals significant events or personal growth. Think of them as the "big picture" moments of your journey.

Minor Arcana (56 cards): These focus on everyday experiences, emotions, and challenges. They are divided into four suits (Wands, Cups, Swords, Pentacles), each corresponding to different aspects of life (passion, emotions, thoughts, material world). These cards offer guidance on day-to-day matters and personal development.

Major Arcana (Life’s Big Lessons)

The Fool (0): New beginnings, spontaneity, trust in the journey

The Magician (I): Manifestation, personal power, taking action

The High Priestess (II): Intuition, hidden knowledge, divine wisdom

The Empress (III): Creativity, abundance, nurturing energy

The Emperor (IV): Structure, leadership, divine masculine

The Hierophant (V): Tradition, spiritual guidance, mentorship

The Lovers (VI): Relationships, choices, divine union

The Chariot (VII): Determination, willpower, victory

Strength (VIII): Inner strength, courage, emotional mastery

The Hermit (IX): Soul-searching, introspection, inner wisdom

Wheel of Fortune (X): Destiny, cycles, change, luck

Justice (XI): Truth, fairness, karmic balance

The Hanged Man (XII): Surrender, new perspective, letting go

Death (XIII): Transformation, endings leading to rebirth

Temperance (XIV): Balance, healing, divine timing

The Devil (XV): Shadow work, illusions, breaking free

The Tower (XVI): Sudden change, awakening, breakthrough

The Star (XVII): Hope, inspiration, divine guidance

The Moon (XVIII): Intuition, illusions, subconscious patterns

The Sun (XIX): Joy, success, clarity, positivity

Judgment (XX): Awakening, higher calling, self-reflection

The World (XXI): Completion, fulfillment, alignment

Minor Arcana (Daily Themes & Experiences)

Each suit is tied to an element, offering insight into different aspects of life:

Wands (Fire – Passion, Action, Spiritual Energy)

Themes: Creativity, ambition, inspiration, movement, spiritual growth
Wands represent our drive, motivation, and the energy we bring to our passions and projects. They encourage us to take action, follow our intuition, and pursue our goals. This suit often points to personal power, enthusiasm, and adventure, but also burnout and impulsiveness when imbalanced.

Cups (Water – Emotions, Relationships, Intuition)

Themes: Love, connection, intuition, emotional well-being
Cups govern the world of feelings, relationships, and inner experiences. They reveal how we connect with others, how we process emotions, and the role intuition plays in our lives. When this suit appears, it often speaks to romance, friendships, creativity, and spiritual depth, but can also point to emotional overwhelm, illusions, or disconnection.

Swords (Air – Mind, Truth, Communication)

Themes: Thoughts, intellect, clarity, decisions, truth
Swords are associated with the power of the mind—how we think, analyze, and express ourselves. They cut through illusion, bringing logic, honesty, and clarity, but they can also highlight conflict, overthinking, and mental struggles. This suit encourages us to seek truth and justice while recognizing when thoughts become limiting or self-destructive.

Pentacles (Earth – Stability, Finances, Material World)

Themes: Security, prosperity, hard work, manifestation
Pentacles focus on the physical and material aspects of life, including work, finances, health, and long-term stability. They remind us to stay grounded, put in the effort, and create tangible results. While this suit often signals abundance and success, it can also point to scarcity, fear of failure, or a disconnect from deeper values.

Tapping Into the Meanings:

Trust Your Intuition: What’s the first feeling or image you get?

Consider the Context: Look at surrounding cards and the question asked.

Use Symbols & Elements: Colors, numbers, and imagery provide deeper insight.

Ask, “What is this card teaching me?” Every card has wisdom for your path.