The first card drawn is one of the three cards that collectively represent the Subject's past. However, it also serves as the Significator, representing the Subject and their overall relationship to the situation being explored.

This card can provide valuable insight into the Subject's personality, mindset or emotional state. It may highlight their strengths, concerns, motivations or overriding feelings about the matter at hand. As the reading unfolds, Readers should refer back to the Significator, using it as a point of reference when interpreting the cards around it.

Because this card sits within the Past row, it can also reveal how previous experiences have shaped the Subject's current outlook and continue to influence their present circumstances.

The centre card represents the crux of the matter; the issue, influence or opportunity that sits at the heart of the situation. Whilst all the cards in the spread contribute to the overall picture, this position often provides the clearest indication of what the reading is truly about.

In some ways, The Crux serves a similar purpose to the Conflict position in the Celtic Cross, helping the Reader focus on the most important aspect of the situation. However, unlike a conflict card, The Crux is not necessarily challenging or negative. It may reveal a problem that needs attention, but it can equally highlight a source of happiness, motivation, support or growth.

When interpreting the spread, Readers should continually refer back to this card. Consider how the Past, Present and Future rows connect to the issue shown here, and whether the Subject's actions and attitudes are helping or hindering progress. Understanding The Crux often provides the key to understanding the wider story revealed by the reading.

The first three cards reveal the people, experiences and influences from the past that continue to shape the Subject's current situation. These cards often provide important context, helping the Reader understand how the Subject arrived at this point and why certain patterns or challenges may still be present.

Past influences are not always negative. Whilst these cards may highlight old disappointments, mistakes or unresolved issues, they can equally point to lessons learned, strengths developed and experiences that now serve the Subject well. The Reader should consider how the events of the past are affecting both the Present and Future rows.

When interpreting these cards, look for recurring themes and connections. Are there past experiences the Subject is struggling to let go of? Have important lessons been learned that can now be applied to the current situation? Understanding the Past row often provides the key to understanding the rest of the reading.

The middle row reflects the Subject's current situation and the people, influences and circumstances that are shaping events now. These cards provide a snapshot of where things stand in the present moment and often reveal the factors that are having the greatest impact on the Subject.

Readers should pay particular attention to the relationship between these cards and both the Significator and The Crux. Together, they can provide valuable insight into how the Subject is responding to their circumstances, whether they are acting in alignment with their goals, and what influences may be helping or hindering their progress.

When interpreting the Present row, look for themes that connect the past to the future. What is happening right now that will influence the outcome of the situation? What opportunities, challenges or decisions require the Subject's attention? As the only part of the reading that can be acted upon immediately, the Present row often holds the greatest potential for change and growth.

The final three cards reveal the likely direction of the situation if events continue along their current path. They show the people, influences and outcomes that may emerge as a result of the choices, attitudes and circumstances represented in the Past and Present rows.

It is important to remember that the future is not fixed. Tarot does not predict an unavoidable outcome; rather, it highlights the most probable course of events based on what is happening now. If the Subject changes their approach, makes different decisions or gains new insight from the reading, the future may develop differently.

When interpreting these cards, consider how the Future row compares with both the Past and Present. Does it suggest progress, repetition or a turning point? Are the lessons of the past being carried forward, or has the Subject found a new direction? Understanding the Future row can help the Subject make informed decisions in the present and take an active role in shaping what comes next.