How to Set Up Your Table & Care For Your Deck | Lesson Six
Historically, reversals are very important.
They make things difficult, but it effectively doubled the deck from 78 to 156 meanings.
Differing opinions → it's your choice!
Should You Read Reversals In Tarot?
The decision to include reversals in tarot readings is a personal one and varies among readers based on their reading style, experience, and the goals of their tarot practice. While some readers find that reversals add valuable layers of meaning and insight, others prefer to stick with upright cards for clarity and simplicity. Here are some considerations to help you decide whether reading reversals is right for you.
Lets Talk Reversals
1. The Opposite Meaning
The most simple and straightforward answer is a card representing the opposite meaning of its original value.
Upright, The Fool represents new beginnings, spontaneous adventures, innocence, and taking a leap of faith.
Reversed, The Fool can mean the exact opposite, indicating recklessness, a fear of taking risks, holding back from a fresh start, or making careless choices.
2. Too Much of a Certain Energy Might Be Present
Now, this would be a hyper-intense version of the card. You will know if this is the case based off the surrounding cards in the reading.
Upright, The 7 of Swords references strategy, independence, cunningness, and the act or desire to sneak away to protect yourself.
If a reversed card indicates too much of the card’s energy, the 7 of Swords could suggest an overreliance on secrecy and deception. Maybe you are being overly paranoid, excessively scheming, or completely isolating yourself from others out of distrust. Taking strategy and self-preservation to a negative extreme can lead to outright dishonesty or burning bridges you actually need.
3. Not Enough of the Card’s Energy
When a tarot card comes out reversed, it may indicate that there’s a lack of a certain energy which would be helpful in this situation.
Upright, The 9 of Cups references emotional fulfillment, satisfaction, joy, and having your wishes fulfilled—often called the "wish card."
Reversed, The 9 of Cups could indicate a complete lack of content or satisfaction. You might be feeling empty, unfulfilled, or blocked from experiencing genuine happiness. Instead of celebrating your achievements, you may be focusing entirely on what is missing, leading to low spirits and a sense of emotional scarcity.
4. Internalizing the Meaning of the Card.
Lastly, instead of this card’s energy playing out externally in the world around you, a reversed card could be pointing out something in your internal self that is not being shown outwardly.
Upright, the Ace of Pentacles indicates a new, tangible beginning, a fresh financial opportunity, or a solid physical manifestation coming your way. The main message is that a prosperous seed is being planted in the real world.
Reversed, if the Ace of Pentacles shows up, it could mean you need to internalize the card’s message. Instead of waiting for an external job offer or a physical gift, you are being asked to cultivate a sense of inner worth, personal stability, and self-value. It is about planting the seed of abundance within your own mindset before you can expect to see it grow in the world around you.
Using Reversed Cards
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Adds depth, nuance, and complexity. | Can overwhelm beginners. |
| Reveals blockages, resistance, or hidden influences. | Adds extra meanings to memorize. |
| Highlights internal emotional/psychological processes. | May interrupt intuitive flow. |
| Connects to traditional tarot teachings. | Some reversed imagery is visually confusing. |
| Allows more contrast in readings. | Inconsistent between decks and traditions. |
Upright-Only Reading
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ideal for beginners. | Provides less immediate contrast. |
| Simplifies interpretation and reduces overwhelm. | Shadow meanings must be derived from context. |
| Strengthens intuitive reading through imagery. | May feel “too light” for some readers. |
| Useful for gentle or empowerment-based readings. | Less aligned with older tarot traditions. |
| Faster and clearer for public or group settings. | Some clients expect reversed cards. |
Ultimately, the choice to use reversals in tarot readings should align with what feels most comfortable and effective for you as a reader.
If you’re new to tarot, you might start by familiarizing yourself with the upright meanings of the cards and gradually introducing reversals as you gain confidence and experience.
Practicing Reading Reversals
Exercise 1: Light & Shadow Study
Pick 3 cards. For each:
- Write the upright meaning.
- Write the reversed meaning.
- Describe the difference in tone, energy, and advice.
Exercise 2: Upright-Only Spread
Lay a 3-card spread with no reversals.
Answer:
- Where do you see possible blockages based on position only?
- How does card interaction create contrast?
- Which card feels like the core message?
Exercise 3: Reversal Spread
Lay a 3-card spread and allow reversals.
Answer:
- Which reversed cards show delays or resistance?
- Which reversed cards show internalized emotion or fear?
- How does the spread’s overall energy differ from Exercise
3. The Past that lead to this situation
5. The Goal/destiny/the ideal outcome also what is occupying your conscious thoughts
