Rider-Waite · start here
Rider-Waite Tarot for Beginners
Tarot Rider-Waite: Learn to Read All 78 Cards from Scratch
A guide to observing Rider-Waite-Smith images, understanding each card and moving from theory to a complete reading.
01 / The book
The scenes are part of the method
Even the numbered cards in the Rider-Waite-Smith deck have illustrated scenes. This book asks what the figures are doing, which details stand out and how meaning changes with the question and nearby cards.
It introduces the deck and Pamela Colman Smith's visual contribution, then covers 22 majors and 56 minors before moving to questions, reversals, combinations and worked spreads. Read it in sequence or use the card entries as a reference.
02 / Inside the book
A course and a reference book
The chapters connect imagery, meaning and practice.
- 01
The deck and first reading
The 78-card structure, preparing a reading, asking questions and the differences from Marseille.
- 02
Major and Minor Arcana
Each card's scene, central meaning, upright and reversed nuances and applications in different areas of life.
- 03
Complete readings
Cards in pairs and groups, short spreads and the Celtic Cross, worked examples and a glossary.
03 / How to use it
Look at the scene before the keywords
Pick a card and describe who is there, what they do, where they look and which element dominates. Then consult its entry. This ties meaning to an actual image instead of a memorised definition.
When two cards appear together, ask whether one supports, challenges or modifies the other. The question and spread position complete the reading. You can add reversals once upright cards feel familiar.
04 / Is it for you?
For a deck with illustrated scenes
In Rider-Waite-Smith, Strength is VIII and Justice XI. Its numbered minors have scenes. If your deck uses that system, this guide provides a starting point and a practice route.
Marseille uses Justice VIII, Strength XI and unillustrated pips; it has its own guide. If you already know the Rider-Waite cards and want to read pairs, choose the dedicated combinations book.
05 / FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Do I need experience?
No. The opening chapters introduce the deck before the first readings.
Are all 78 cards covered?
Yes: 22 majors and 56 minors, each with a reference entry.
Are there full spreads?
Yes. The book includes explained spreads and worked readings, including the Celtic Cross.
Is this the 500 combinations book?
No. This is the beginner's guide; the combinations dictionary is a separate volume.
06 / Editions
Choose your edition
These formats appear in the KDP inventory for this edition. Each link opens its own ASIN.
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The collection
More from the collection
Marseille · start here
Marseille Tarot for Beginners
All 78 cards, unillustrated pips and your first spreads.
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Marseille · go deeper
Marseille Tarot Card Combinations
A method for reading pairs plus 500 card combinations.
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Rider-Waite · go deeper
Rider-Waite Tarot Card Combinations
Read two cards together with a visual method and 500 pairs.
View bookTarot and dream interpretation are offered for entertainment and reflection. They do not replace professional advice.