Rider Waite Smith two-card tarot reading: simple method and complete interpretation

The 2-card spread draw, is a fast, intuitive tarot method accessible to everyone. Perfect for obtaining an initial insight into a situation, this type of draw is particularly recommended when you’re looking for a concise answer or immediate guidance. Used in conjunction with the renowned Rider Waite Smith tarot, it offers a powerful reading in just two cards.

Why choose the two-card draw ?

This express draw should not be confused with the ritual cut performed prior to a full draw. Here, the two cards are drawn after the deck has been shuffled and cut, revealing the main energies around a question. It’s a simple but highly effective way of shedding light on an issue or initiating a more in-depth reading.

Steps in a 2-card draw with the Waite Smith Rider :

Formulate a clear, focused question

Before drawing the cards, take the time to ask a precise question. Ideally, you should structure your question as follows: [Name of consultant] + [Subject of question]
Example: “Mary and her current professional situation”. This will clearly guide the interpretation of the cards.

Drawing cards: Shuffle, cut, draw

Once the question has been asked:

Carefully shuffle the 78 Rider Waite tarot cards.

Two possible methods :

• Option 1 : Lay the cards face down, then draw two intuitively.
• Option 2 : Cut the deck into two piles and turn over the face-up card from each pile.

Then lay the two cards side by side, the first on the left, the second on the right, in the order in which they were drawn.

Keys to interpreting the two-card spread in the Rider Waite tarot

Depending on what you want to achieve, there are several possible approaches. Here are the most common :

Current situation / Evolution or perspective

• Card 1 (left): Represents the present state or starting point.
• Card 2 (right): Indicates the direction the situation is taking, future potential or future developments

Strengths and weaknesses – Pros / Cons

• Card 1: Highlights positive energies, support or opportunities.
• Card 2: Reveals challenges, blockages or risks related to the issue.

Mother-Daughter Dynamics (symbolic approach)

A more symbolic and intuitive reading can be adopted :

• Left card (Mother): Origin, energy source, background context.
• Right card (Daughter): The consequence, evolution or outward expression of this energy.

This approach is reminiscent of the dynamic between the sun sign and the ascendant in astrology: the “daughter” card nuances or influences the “mother” card.

Symbolic interpretation grid (Mother-Daughter) :

Tip: A third card can be added to deepen the reading, as long as it does not overload the consultant’s intuitive reading.