Horseshoe Tarot Spread

The horseshoe spread is a classic 7-card tarot layout arranged in a U or horseshoe shape. It offers comprehensive insight covering past influences, present situation, hidden factors, advice, attitudes of others, recommended action, and likely outcome. It is simpler than the Celtic Cross but more detailed than a 3-card spread.

Use this spread when you need more depth than a simple 3-card reading but want something less complex than the Celtic Cross. It works well for specific questions, decision-making, understanding complex situations, and when you want to explore how others perceive your situation.

Lay cards in a U-shape: Cards 1-3 form the left side (bottom to top), card 4 sits at the top center, and cards 5-7 form the right side (top to bottom). Some readers reverse this direction. Use whatever feels natural to you.

Position 1: Past influences. Position 2: Present situation. Position 3: Hidden influences or obstacles. Position 4: Best course of action (the keystone). Position 5: Attitudes of others involved. Position 6: What you should do. Position 7: Final outcome if you follow the advice.

The horseshoe spread has fewer cards (7 vs 10) and more straightforward position meanings. The Celtic Cross includes additional layers like hopes/fears and external influences. The horseshoe is quicker while still providing substantial depth.

Remember that position 7 shows the likely outcome IF you follow the advice in position 6. A challenging outcome card might indicate the need to reconsider your approach, or it could represent a difficult but ultimately beneficial transformation.

The horseshoe works better for open-ended questions that explore a situation. For yes/no questions, simpler spreads are more appropriate. This spread excels at showing the full picture and guiding decision-making.

Card 4 sits at the center top of the horseshoe, like the keystone of an arch. It represents the crux of the matter and the best course of action. All other cards lead to and flow from this central guidance.