# Past, present and possible direction

Getting started · 3 positions

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

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 has shaped this situation, and what can I change now?

## 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. Past

Consider an earlier influence that can be checked against your memory or records.

### 2. Present

Identify the theme that seems most relevant to the situation as it stands.

### 3. Possible direction

Explore a conditional development and what could change it; this position is not a fixed forecast.

## How to connect the positions

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

Read from left to right, then compare the first and third cards. Separate a repeated theme from a change in emphasis. Finish by naming one current condition that would have to remain true for your proposed direction to make sense.

## What to watch for

The last card does not make the future inevitable. New information and decisions can change the interpretation.

## Cards to explore alongside this spread

[The Wheel of Fortune ↗](https://tarotatlas.wiki/en/cards/wheel-of-fortune/)[Three of Wands ↗](https://tarotatlas.wiki/en/cards/three-of-wands/)[Six of Swords ↗](https://tarotatlas.wiki/en/cards/six-of-swords/)
[Study guide →](https://tarotatlas.wiki/en/study-guide/)