I’m looking for recommendations on a beginner-friendly tarot deck.
I think back in the day, we would always just suggest the RWD but there are so many different systems and decks that could be better for beginners to pick up and start working with.
There are so many beautiful options out there, but I’m wondering which ones have the clearest symbolism and are easiest to learn with? I’ve heard that some decks are better for learning the traditional meanings, while others might be too abstract for someone just starting out. What would you suggest as a first deck? Is it better to start with something classic like Rider-Waite, or are there modern decks that make learning easier?
Would love to hear what worked for you when you were starting out, or what you’d recommend for someone taking their first steps into tarot. Thanks!
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There’s some personal choice here because what works for one person isn’t always the same for others but I would start with a beginners Oracle deck.
There is a really good thread on Tarot vs Oracle specifically for beginners, but I am firmly in the camp that if you want to start seeing real results from your readings early on, then you should start with one of these decks.
They’re still serious and viable for your entire time with the cards, but they will work easily and early on.
I don’t know how this thread didn’t get more traction. Might just be because we have so many other deck threads going on at the same time - sorry @Brightsmile!
We do have a thread on the best Tarot deck for beginners already, which has plenty of replies and suggestions, so you might want to check that out if you haven’t already.
They’re the same thing as the easiest to get started with.
Everyone swears by their favorite ‘intuitive’ deck, but I found the Modern Witch Tarot works well for beginners.
It’s basically RWS imagery with modern scenes - laptops instead of scrolls, that kind of thing. You get the traditional meanings without the medieval symbolism. Sometimes I wonder if the cards work better when you can relate to someone holding a coffee cup instead of a chalice.
I started on a Marseille deck with pip-only minors. No scenes to lean on, so I focused on the number/suit and the feel of the spread. RWS is beginner-friendly, but the idea of a right image can become a crutch and overshadow your own impressions. That’s just my experience.
Don’t look for the easy ones. Look for whatever deck you resonate with and stick with it. Far more important.