Exploring a problem · 8 positions
Horseshoe: eight cards
Horseshoe: eight cards explores attitude, a timeline, choices, environment and obstacles. The diagram identifies 8 roles; the instructions explain how to draw and read them.
Practice deck: all 78 RWS cards
Version and dealing convention
This page defines one numbered version. The local exercise uses the displayed deck and draw method; other traditions may change the arrangement or roles. Agree on the version before drawing.
A question to try
What would you like to examine about attitude, a timeline, choices, environment and obstacles?
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
Your attitude
Use this role to explore “Your attitude” in the context of the whole layout, rather than treating the card as a standalone conclusion.
- 2
Past situation
Use this role to explore “Past situation” in the context of the whole layout, rather than treating the card as a standalone conclusion.
- 3
Present situation
Use this role to explore “Present situation” in the context of the whole layout, rather than treating the card as a standalone conclusion.
- 4
Future possibility
Use this role to explore “Future possibility” in the context of the whole layout, rather than treating the card as a standalone conclusion.
- 5
Best available choice
Use this role to explore “Best available choice” in the context of the whole layout, rather than treating the card as a standalone conclusion.
- 6
Environmental influence
Use this role to explore “Environmental influence” in the context of the whole layout, rather than treating the card as a standalone conclusion.
- 7
Problem encountered
Use this role to explore “Problem encountered” in the context of the whole layout, rather than treating the card as a standalone conclusion.
- 8
Possible outcome
Use this role to explore “Possible outcome” in the context of the whole layout, rather than treating the card as a standalone conclusion.
How to connect the positions
Reading sequence (read grouped roles together as explained below): 1 → 2 → 3 → 4 → 5 → 6 → 7 → 8
Read 1, compare the timeline 2–4, then conditions 5–7 and the conclusion 8. This eight-card U-shaped layout differs from the seven-card V-shaped horseshoe; the extra attitude position shifts the numbering.
What to watch for
A symbolic interpretation does not establish hidden facts or guarantee an outcome. Separate observations from assumptions and use direct communication for questions involving another person.
Your practice
Practise this spread
Draw distinct cards to practise matching a meaning to a position. Read the prompts and compare them with the complete card meanings.
The draw happens in this browser. It is not saved or sent as a personal reading.
Your cards will appear here after you draw.