3 cards · Classic spreads
Past, Present, Future
Past, Present, Future is the simplest and most versatile tarot spread. Three cards in a row turn a situation into a story: what shaped it, what is happening now and where it is heading.
When to use this spread
- To get to know tarot — the ideal spread for beginners.
- When you need a quick answer that is more than one word.
- For daily or weekly reflection.
Spread positions
- 1Past
Events, experiences and decisions that shaped the situation.
- 2Present
What is happening now and which energy prevails.
- 3Future
Where things are heading if you keep going the same way.
How to read the spread
Read the three cards as one sentence: “Because of [past], now [present], and that leads to [future]”. The meanings then form a story instead of a list of keywords.
The future card is not a verdict. If it worries you, look at what you can change in the present: tarot shows a tendency, not fate.
Frequently asked questions
Can I change what the positions mean?
Yes — three cards is a flexible format. Numen has versions for love, career, finance, health and spiritual growth, each with its own position names.
What if the cards contradict each other?
A contradiction is an answer too: it shows tension in the situation. Notice which card is stronger (a Major Arcana, for example) — it usually sets the direction.