While a spread can be random, there are specific spreads to learn as well. Common spreads are Celtic Cross, Horse-shoe, 3-card spread, astrological spread and tetractys. Cards can be laid out one at a time face down or face up.

Tarot reading celtic cross interpretations are common. Five cards are arranged in a cross while four are put vertically beside the cross. The final card is placed across the center card of the cross, horizontally. This card often represents an obstacle the inquirer must face. The center card of the cross is often the most significant.

The horse shoe spread consists of 7 cards. They are laid out in the shape of a “V” or semi circle. They represent the past, present, influences, obstacles, expectations, best course of action and possible outcomes.

The 3 card spread is simpler to understand. Three cards are laid out to represent the past, present and future. A variation on the 3 card spread is the European 9 card spread. Instead of 1 card representing the past, present and future, there are 3 cards in 3 groups.

The astrological spread shows 12 cards in a circle (like the 12 signs of the zodiac). A final card is put in the middle of the circle.

The tetractys spread is laid out in a pyramid with 4 cards on the bottom, 3 on the next row above it, 2 on the next row and 1 at the top. Each row represents one of the elements.