How to Choose your First Tarot Deck or Oracle Deck

How to Choose Your First Tarot Deck and Oracle Deck 🔮✨

So, you’re ready to start reading cards — but the moment you search for a deck, you’re faced with hundreds of choices.

Which one is the deck for you? How do you know where to begin?

Let’s take it step by step.

Tarot vs. Oracle — What’s the Difference?

• Tarot decks follow a set structure: 78 cards, divided into the Major Arcana (big life lessons) and Minor Arcana (day-to-day themes). The meanings are rooted in a shared tradition, though each deck has its own style.

• Oracle decks are free-form. They can have any number of cards, any system, and any themes — from angels to herbs to animal spirits. The meanings are unique to that deck.

Choosing Your First Tarot Deck

1. Start with a Clear System

   For beginners, a Rider–Waite–Smith style deck (or one clearly based on it) is often easiest to learn from because most guidebooks, classes, and online resources refer to it.

   
   

2. Look for Clear Imagery

   Choose artwork that is detailed but easy to interpret — avoid decks that are too abstract at first.

   
   

3. Notice Your Emotional Pull

   Hold the deck in your hands (if possible) or look at multiple cards online. Do they speak to you? Do you feel curious about their stories?

   
   

4. Don’t Stress About “The First Deck Should Be a Gift”

   That’s an old superstition. If a deck calls to you — buy it. You are allowed to choose your own tools.

Choosing Your First Oracle Deck

1. Pick a Theme You Connect With

   Animals, plants, goddesses, the moon, shadow work — the possibilities are endless. Go for something that sparks excitement.

   
   

2. Check the Guidebook

   Some oracle decks have deep, rich guidebooks. Others are minimal. As a beginner, you may prefer one with clear explanations and spreads.

   
   

3. Look for Positive Flow

   Since oracle decks are less structured, choose one that feels uplifting and supportive — especially if you’re still building confidence in your readings.

Tips for Both

• Try Before You Buy: Search for full deck walkthroughs on YouTube to see all the cards before committing.

• Size Matters: Make sure the cards are comfortable for your hands.

• Trust Your Intuition: If a deck feels “right” when you see it, that’s your answer.

A First Ritual with Your Deck

When your new deck arrives:

1. Hold it to your heart and thank it for coming to you.

2. Shuffle slowly, learning the feel of the cards.

3. Pull one card and ask, “What do you want me to know about our work together?”

   This will be the start of your relationship.

A Final Note

Your first deck doesn’t have to be your forever deck. Over time, you may build a collection — each one with its own voice. But that first deck will always hold a special place in your journey.

Choose with curiosity, connect with love, and let the cards speak. 🔮💚