The Past Present Future Tarot spread is a simple three-card layout that gives you a snapshot of where you’ve been, where you are, and where things are heading. Below is the spread image and an easy step-by-step on how to use the spread for guidance.
Table of Contents
How to Use the Past Present Future Tarot Spread
- Ground yourself with a few steady breaths.
- Set a clear intention for your reading.
- Cleanse your deck if it feels heavy.
- Shuffle while focusing on your question.
- Lay out three cards left to right: Past, Present, Future.
Try these questions
- What do I need to know about this situation
- What is the best next step
- What energy should I lean into this week
Position Meanings
🌙 Past
What you’ve already been through and the lessons that still matter.
Where you’ve been, what shaped you, the roots.
⭐ Present
What’s happening right now and the energy around you.
Where you are, what surrounds you, the bloom.
☀️ Future
What direction things are moving toward if nothing changes.
Where you’re headed, what’s to come, the fruit.
Apply the SECRET Formula to Tarot
Use my simple 3-step formula to read any card you pull:
- See – Notice what stands out in the card. Colors, symbols, feelings.
- Place – Connect it to the card meaning and position in the spread (Past, Present, or Future).
- Apply – Ask how this message fits into your life right now.
This formula makes your reading clear, intuitive, and personal.
👉 If you want more, check out my full guide: How To Do a Tarot Reading Step by Step
Mantra
I am grounded, clear, and open to guidance.
Journal prompt
Use the Secret Formula to Tarot to write one line for Past, one for Present, one for Future. What connects all three
FAQ’s
Q: How do I do a 3 card tarot spread step by step?
A: To learn how to do a 3 card tarot spread, start by grounding yourself and shuffling your deck with a clear question in mind. Lay out three cards in order. The first represents the past, the second the present, and the third the future. This layout is perfect for a quick tarot reading when you don’t have time for a longer spread.
Q: Is the Past Present Future spread good for beginners?
A: Yes. The Past Present Future tarot for beginners is one of the best tarot spreads to start with. It’s short, clear, and gives strong insight without being overwhelming. Many people use it as their go-to tarot guidance spread because it brings clarity with just three cards. It’s definitely a simple tarot spread for beginners.
Q: When should I use a 3 card tarot spread?
A: A 3 card tarot spread is best when you need a tarot spread for clarity about a situation, decision, or relationship. It’s simple enough for everyday readings but still powerful for guidance. Use it when you want a quick tarot reading that gets straight to the point.
Q: Why do people like using this spread?
A: The Past / Present / Future layout is straightforward, yet rich. It’s a classic because it speaks to both reflection and direction in just three cards. If you ever want to dive deeper into how widespread tarot and astrology use really is, check out this Pew Research article on how many Americans use tarot, horoscopes, or fortune telling: “30% of Americans Consult Astrology, Tarot Cards or Fortune Tellers.” Pew Research Center
I also believe if you are wanting to get into using tarrot cards, this a good one to start and practice with.
Thanks Dustin for your comment! It Definitely is a good staple to learn, beginner friendly and expert ready.