Made by Maryn Tan for Here is Good

Disclaimer: This guidebook is based on Maryn’s experience with tarot and does not serve as an exhaustive resource.

Table of Contents

Origins of Tarot

Choosing a Deck

Understanding the Cards

Cleansing Your Deck’s Energy

Doing a Reading

Interpretation Resources

Reading Takeaways

Final Words

Origins of Tarot

I won’t pretend to be a tarot history expert, but I do know that tarot has been around for a while (apparently since mid-15th century Europe)!

The form of tarot most recognized today comes from the Rider Waite Smith tarot deck, first published in 1909. A lot of folks start with this deck since it’s seen as the OG tarot deck. It’s loaded with symbolism and elaborate illustrations. Decks created in other styles are typically based on this deck.

The traditional Rider Waite Smith tarot deck

The traditional Rider Waite Smith tarot deck

Choosing a Deck

Finding a deck you’re excited about is part of the fun.

There are all sorts of tarot decks out there for every style and niche. When you’re starting out though, it can help to choose one that helps you become familiar with the basic symbols of the cards.