# Core question spread

Exploring a problem · 4 positions

Four positions separate the central issue, a difficulty, a response and an available resource. Useful when a question has become tangled.

Numbers identify positions; the reading sequence is explained below. Other versions may assign different roles.

Practice deck: all 78 RWS cards

## Version and dealing convention

The numbered diagram defines this version. Other traditions may place or name positions differently. The practice uses consecutive random draws from the displayed deck scope.

## A question to try

What is the central issue, and what can support a response?

## Before you draw

- Write one open question and define its scope. Keep factual questions separate from symbolic reflection.

- Choose the position order and decide whether to include reversals before drawing.

- Read each card in its role, then compare the positions. Note uncertainty and one practical next question.

## Position guide

### 1. Core

State one issue rather than combining several unrelated concerns.

### 2. Obstacle

Consider a constraint or blind spot that can be investigated.

### 3. Response

Turn the symbolic theme into a small action you could test.

### 4. Resource

Notice a skill, relationship or practical support already available.

## How to connect the positions

Reading sequence (read grouped roles together as explained below): 1 → 2 → 3 → 4

Compare the obstacle with the resource before choosing a response. A card in the resource position may suggest using a quality differently from how it appears in the obstacle position. End with a testable next step and a time to review it.

## What to watch for

A difficult-looking card in a resource position is not automatically a bad resource. Read its role and the full meaning together.

## Cards to explore alongside this spread

[The Magician ↗](https://tarotatlas.wiki/en/cards/magician/)[Seven of Wands ↗](https://tarotatlas.wiki/en/cards/seven-of-wands/)[Three of Pentacles ↗](https://tarotatlas.wiki/en/cards/three-of-pentacles/)
[Study guide →](https://tarotatlas.wiki/en/study-guide/)

## Explore another structure

[Reading layout · Getting started · 3 positions

### Past, present and possible direction

A three-card timeline for examining how a situation developed and which current conditions may shape its next stage.

↗](https://tarotatlas.wiki/en/spreads/three-card/)[Study exercise · Exploring a problem · 5 positions

### Problem review: five-card exercise

A five-part review of a problem: background, present conditions, environment, obstacles and a response to examine.

↗](https://tarotatlas.wiki/en/spreads/problem-solving/)