Apprentice Tarot Deck - learning tarot with keywords on the cards
The Universal Waite system has been known for decades for its clear symbolism. But for many beginners, remembering all the meanings is a barrier. This deck removes that barrier by printing a keyword beneath each card.
It is a practical solution: you see the image, you see the word, and you can start laying out cards immediately. Designed by Jody Boginski Barbessi and published by U.S. Games Systems.
What you see on the cards
The illustrations are nearly identical to the Universal Waite deck. Soft colours, clear lines, classic Rider-Waite symbolism. The only difference is at the bottom: a core word that sums up the meaning.
The Magician says 'manifestation'. The Sun says 'joy'. The Tower says 'upheaval'. Short words that offer support without filling in the interpretation completely for you.
The cards are printed on sturdy cardstock with a smooth, slightly glossy finish. The size is standard: 70 x 120 mm. They shuffle smoothly and feel comfortable in the hand.
Who this deck is designed for
This deck is explicitly designed for beginners. It assumes you do not yet know the meanings by heart and helps you learn them step by step. The keywords act as memory aids during a reading.
People who struggle with memorising card meanings also use this deck regularly. It speeds up the learning process without having to reach for a book each time.
Draw a card and look at the image first. Try to sense what you see before looking at the word. That way you train your intuition and use the keyword as confirmation, not replacement.
About Jody Boginski Barbessi
Jody Boginski Barbessi studied at the Pratt Institute in New York, the same art school where Pamela Colman Smith trained. Smith illustrated the original Rider-Waite cards in 1909.
Barbessi works as a graphic designer and tarot illustrator. Alongside the Apprentice Tarot Deck, she also created the Influence of the Angels Tarot. Her focus lies in combining classic tarot symbolism with accessible learning tools.
Specifications
- Number of cards: 78 (Major and Minor Arcana)
- Size: 70 x 120 mm
- Material: sturdy cardstock with smooth glossy finish
- Weight: 300 g
- Language: English
- Publisher: U.S. Games Systems, Inc.
- ISBN: 9781646711506
- Includes: compact English guidebook
Questions we often get
Are the keywords the only meaning a card can have?
No. The keywords are meant as a starting point. They sum up the core, but tarot cards always have multiple layers of meaning. As you gain more experience, you will start thinking beyond those words as well.
What is the difference with the standard Universal Waite deck?
The illustrations are almost the same. The only difference is the keywords printed beneath each card. Otherwise the imagery is identical to the Universal Waite system.
