7 cards · 45 min

Decision Spread (Two Paths)

Seven cards mapping two paths, side by side.

Best for

Choosing between two clear options.

Introduction

Most decisions feel like a choice between A and B. The Decision Spread maps both paths so you can see what each would feel like to live in. It doesn't decide for you · it shows you the texture of each option.

A note on history

A modern spread, popularised by Mary K. Greer and others. Variations are many.

How to lay the spread

Name the two options out loud before you shuffle. Hold the situation in mind. Lay 1 in the centre (where you are now), 2-4 in a column on the left (Path A), 5-7 in a column on the right (Path B). Read each path top to bottom, then compare.

The positions

What each card means

  1. 1
    Where you are

    The current situation. The standing point.

  2. 2
    Path A · gift

    What this path offers that's real.

  3. 3
    Path A · cost

    What this path costs that's real.

  4. 4
    Path A · outcome

    Where this path leads in the next chapter.

  5. 5
    Path B · gift

    What this path offers that's real.

  6. 6
    Path B · cost

    What this path costs that's real.

  7. 7
    Path B · outcome

    Where this path leads in the next chapter.

Who it suits

Job decisions. Relocation decisions. Stay-or-leave relationship questions. Anything where the binary is real.

Who it doesn't

When the actual question isn't binary. Sometimes the spread reveals there's a third path you weren't considering · pay attention if the cards keep gesturing past A and B.

Variations

Three-path version with an extra column. The 'best path' variant adds a single card at the bottom · the wiser path, read as a recommendation rather than a verdict.

Asked Often
How many cards in the Decision Spread (Two Paths)?
7 cards.
How long does a Decision Spread (Two Paths) reading take?
About 45 minutes when read attentively. Some readers go longer.
What is the Decision Spread (Two Paths) best for?
Choosing between two clear options.
Who shouldn't use the Decision Spread (Two Paths)?
When the actual question isn't binary. Sometimes the spread reveals there's a third path you weren't considering · pay attention if the cards keep gesturing past A and B.
Decision Spread (Two Paths) tarot spread · positions, meanings, how to read · BookTarot