Horseshoe spread

From Tarotpedia

There are different versions of the Horseshoe Spread having different numbers of cards. This type of spread is usually used where a single question might produce two different outcomes. An example of this might be; Should I stay with the Devil I know, or go with the Devil I don't know? One side of the Horseshoe (pictured on end with the ends of the shoe in the air) would be used to answer the first question, the other side for the other question.

However - in my usage the cards are spread out simultaneously across the arms, yet are read up the arms. So although you will lay out the cards in this manner:

--- 5 ---- 6 --- Outcome

--- 3 ---- 4 --- Influences

---- 1 -- 2 ---- Status quo

You will read #1, #3, and #5 as the answer to the first question and then #2, #4, and #6 as the answer to the second question.

[edit] Seven-card Variation

-1----------------2--

----3-----------4--

-------5--6--7--

Card 1: Past - the recent past events that have influenced the present situation

Card 2: Present - the present situation being addressed, influences, things that are affecting the querent now

Card 3: What is hidden - the things/influences/events the querent cannot see or that which has been overlooked by the querent

Card 4: Obstacles/Challenges - what will block the querent in their path or present the most challenge for them; that which must be overcome before progress can be made

Card 5: Surroundings - that which surrounds the querent, e.g. environment, people, influences , that is useful and helpful to the querent

Card 6: Advice - best course of action to follow

Card 7: Outcome - what will happen if the advice in Card 6 is taken