# Problem-solving: three cards

Exploring a problem · 3 positions

Problem-solving: three cards uses 3 positions to examine the origin of a problem, its present effects and a response. Each position has a distinct role; read it together with the complete card meaning.

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 can I examine about the origin of a problem, its present effects and 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. Origin of the problem

This position explores “Origin of the problem”. Compare the card’s theme with known circumstances, and note what you still need to check.

### 2. Present situation

This position explores “Present situation”. Compare the card’s theme with known circumstances, and note what you still need to check.

### 3. Practical response

This position explores “Practical response”. Compare the card’s theme with known circumstances, and note what you still need to check.

## How to connect the positions

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

Read upwards: 1 → 2 → 3. Connect the response to the cause and present conditions. This three-card structure is distinct from the five-card problem review.

## What to watch for

A symbolic reading cannot verify hidden facts or make an outcome certain. Keep observations separate from assumptions and revisit the interpretation when circumstances change.

## Cards to explore alongside this spread

[The Hermit ↗](https://tarotatlas.wiki/en/cards/hermit/)[Justice ↗](https://tarotatlas.wiki/en/cards/justice/)[The Star ↗](https://tarotatlas.wiki/en/cards/star/)
[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/)[Reading layout · Exploring a problem · 4 positions

### Core question spread

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

↗](https://tarotatlas.wiki/en/spreads/core-question/)