So you’ve got a tarot journal. You might be wondering: what do I record? Truth: that is totally up to you. Some folks like to get detailed, while others prefer bullet points. That being said, here are my suggestions:
- Be sure to write the date down.
- Moon phases. I like to keep track of the phases of the Moon as a way to see when the readings are more accurate. Full Moons are always potent for me, but you might find a different phase works well for you.
- Your question. If you are asking a particular question, write it down. I’ve made the mistake of forgetting to do that. When I looked back later, I couldn’t remember what the heck the cards were referring to!
- The spread. Keep track of the spread you’re using so you are clear on what the card is referring to. For example, if you’re using a Celtic Cross, write down and number every position.
- The cards. Write down every card you drew, and be sure to include their position if you’re using a spread. For example, you might write Queen of Swords – significator.
- If you’re using stickers to represent the cards, you can apply them rather than writing down which cards you drew.
- First impressions. What is the very first thing that pops into your head when you look at the cards? Write that down.
- Detailed interpretations. Go buckwild and write your thoughts on each card. Get as much info as you want (or have space for).
- Keywords. You might also like to jot down a few keywords, especially if you feel stuck on the interpretation part. This might help to jog your intuition.
- Later reflections. This is my favorite part. I love to revisit the reading to see how it worked out. If everything is accurate, you’re good to go. If not, you can see where you might have interpreted differently. This helps in the learning process. After all, your tarot journal isn’t just a diary. It’s a tool for understanding tarot.
Feel free to add anything else you like: Mood, Weather, Time of Day, Oracle Card, etc. Your journal is personal and should reflect what is important to you, including what you feel will help the most in your learning process.
xo
Theresa
Resources:
The journal pictured is The Weiser Tarot Journal.
© Theresa Reed | The Tarot Lady 2023
images from personal collection
*Some of the links are Amazon links, which means I receive a small compensation if you purchase through that link. This does not impact the price of the item.
I’m Theresa Reed (aka, The Tarot Lady). I’ve been a full-time tarot reader for 30+ years — which, in my industry, makes me pretty badass.
I’m definitely not your average Tarot expert — I drop the F-bomb, I quote rappers, and I’m obsessed with pop culture + reality TV. Folks come to me for straight-talk + tough-love — without the woo-woo fluff. 
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