Problem-Solution Spread

Understanding the Problem-Solution Spread

The Problem-Solution Spread offers direct, actionable guidance for any challenge or situation requiring clarity. In just two cards, this spread cuts through confusion to reveal both what needs attention and how to move forward effectively.

Unlike more complex spreads that explore multiple angles, the Problem-Solution Spread focuses on the essential dynamic: identifying the core issue while providing clear guidance for resolution. It’s particularly effective for decision-making, troubleshooting, and gaining perspective on challenging situations.

How to Perform the Problem-Solution Spread

Preparing for Clarity

Before shuffling:

1. Clearly identify the situation or challenge you want guidance on
2. Focus on being open to both identifying the real problem and receiving guidance
3. Be willing to see the situation honestly, even if it’s uncomfortable
4. Trust that the cards will provide the clarity you need

Laying Out the Cards

1. Shuffle while concentrating on your specific situation or challenge
2. Draw two cards when you feel ready
3. Arrange them side by side:
   • Position 1: The Problem (left card)
   • Position 2: The Solution (right card)
4. Turn cards over simultaneously or sequentially as feels right to you

Alternative Layouts

Some readers prefer a vertical arrangement with the Problem card on top and Solution below, creating a visual flow from issue to resolution.

Interpreting the Problem-Solution Spread

Identifying the Core Issue

Card 1 reveals the heart of the matter:

• Swords cards: Mental challenges, communication issues, or conflicts
• Cups cards: Emotional concerns, relationship matters, or creative blocks
• Pentacles cards: Practical problems, financial issues, or material concerns
• Wands cards: Motivation issues, creative challenges, or action-oriented problems
• Major Arcana: Significant life lessons, karmic issues, or spiritual challenges

Pay attention to both the card’s traditional meaning and how it specifically relates to your situation.

Finding the Path Forward

Card 2 provides guidance for resolution:

• Action cards (Wands, certain Major Arcana): Take initiative, make changes, be proactive
• Reflective cards (Cups, The Moon, The Hermit): Look within, process emotions, gain perspective
• Practical cards (Pentacles, The Emperor): Focus on concrete steps, organization, structure
• Communication cards (Swords, The Lovers): Express yourself, seek understanding, negotiate
• Transformational cards (Death, The Tower): Accept necessary change, release what no longer serves

This card doesn’t just tell you what to do—it illuminates the most effective approach for your specific situation.

Reading Patterns and Themes

Suit Dynamics

• Same suit in both positions: The solution lies within the same realm as the problem
• Complementary suits: Different but supportive energies (e.g., emotional problem with practical solution)
• Challenging combinations: May indicate resistance or the need for multiple approaches

Major Arcana Influence

• Major Arcana in Problem position: Deep-seated issue requiring significant attention
• Major Arcana in Solution position: Profound guidance or life-changing insight needed
• Both positions Major Arcana: Transformational situation with powerful guidance

Court Cards as People

Court cards often represent people involved in the situation:

• Problem position: Someone who is part of the challenge or difficulty
• Solution position: Someone who can help or whose qualities you need to embody

Specific Situations

Relationship Challenges

When dealing with relationship issues:

• Card 1 might reveal communication patterns, unmet needs, or external pressures
• Card 2 often suggests communication approaches, boundary-setting, or self-reflection

Work or Career Problems

For professional situations:

• Card 1 illuminates workplace dynamics, skill gaps, or motivational issues
• Card 2 provides guidance on skill development, communication strategies, or career moves

Personal or Emotional Issues

For inner challenges:

• Card 1 reveals thought patterns, emotional blocks, or self-limiting beliefs
• Card 2 offers approaches for healing, growth, or self-care

Practical Problem-Solving

For everyday challenges:

• Card 1 identifies what’s really causing the issue
• Card 2 suggests practical steps or a new perspective

Common Card Combinations

Challenging Situations

• The Tower + The Star: Sudden upheaval leading to hope and healing
• Eight of Swords + The Magician: Self-imposed limitations overcome through focused will
• Five of Pentacles + Six of Pentacles: Financial struggle resolved through assistance or generosity

Growth Opportunities

• The Devil + Temperance: Breaking free from addictive patterns through balance
• Ten of Swords + The Fool: Painful ending making way for new beginnings
• Three of Swords + Three of Cups: Heartbreak healed through community and friendship

Action-Oriented Guidance

• Knight of Swords + The Chariot: Swift action leading to victory
• Page of Pentacles + The Empress: Learning something new with nurturing support
• Eight of Wands + Wheel of Fortune: Rapid developments bringing positive change

When to Use This Spread

The Problem-Solution Spread is perfect for:

• Quick clarity on pressing issues
• Decision-making support
• Understanding relationship dynamics
• Career guidance and workplace challenges
• Personal growth and self-reflection
• Daily problem-solving
• When you need straightforward, actionable guidance

Timing and Follow-Up

This spread typically provides guidance for the immediate future (1-3 months):

• Immediate action cards: Address within days or weeks
• Reflective cards: Take time to process before acting
• Major changes: May unfold over several months

Consider doing follow-up readings to track progress or gain deeper insight into implementation.

Ethical Considerations

When reading for others:

• Focus on empowerment rather than dependency
• Encourage personal responsibility for solutions
• Respect that you’re providing guidance, not making decisions
• Be honest about challenges while offering hope for resolution

Enhancing Your Readings

Journaling Integration

After your reading:

1. Write down both cards and your initial impressions
2. Note how the cards relate to your specific situation
3. Track what insights emerge over the following days
4. Return to your notes when the solution becomes clear

Meditation and Reflection

Take time to meditate with each card:

• Card 1: What is this situation really asking of me?
• Card 2: How can I best respond to this guidance?

The Problem-Solution Spread’s simplicity makes it one of the most versatile and powerful tools in tarot. Its direct approach cuts through complexity to provide exactly the clarity you need when facing challenges or seeking guidance.