The Celtic Cross (sometimes called the Grand Cross) is probably the most common spread used to read the Tarot, though it is not the easiest to master. It is often stated that this spread is only suitable for answering a specific question, but in actual fact it works very well for general readings, too. The Celtic Cross is usually (though not always) used with a significator, selected during the preparatory phase of the reading. The significator is placed face-up on the table and the selected cards laid out as above, with the first card being placed face-down over the significator, the second across it and the rest around it. Some readers opt to say the following phrases as each card is laid down in turn:

1. This covers you (or me, him, her or them, depending on who the reading is for)
2. This crosses you
3. The crowns you
4. This is beneath you
5. This is behind you
6. This is before you
7. Yourself
8. Your house
9. Your hopes and fears
10. What will come

The interpretation of each of these positions is as follows:

A few readers consider that if they feel the tenth and final card does not indicate the ultimate culmination of the reading, another reading should be performed using this card as significator, for clarification.

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