Tresses,

Ah, I hope it helped everyone out! And yes, they are all universal however there are also expert decks that may use different names/symbols/images. Including trump decks that can range from 80 - 225 cards. lol But yes, its all about how well you can connect to a type of deck. =)

@Danny=Universal Waite Tarot is an ACTUAL deck that most beginners use. It was formerly known as the Ryder Waite Deck for those of us who have been doing Tarot readings for more than 20 years. It's what I teach people who want to do Tarot to use. BEFORE one "connects" to a personal deck learning to use the deck is important. That is why I recommend that particular deck for beginners. In my opinion people who have already learned the deck would not ask what deck to use. There is this thing called google--and I figure if one just wants a prettier deck to move to an intermediate level they would do it on their own without asking. Just my opinion. I could be way off base and Teressa has been doing Tarot for 30 years and just wants to gab.

LOL since I'm only 29 and pretty sure I wasn't taroting in the womb, nope no 30 yrs of tarot for me. A friend of mine picked up tarot when we were in hs and I was curious to learn. Being that there was no amazon then (or a comp in our house for that matter) and parents were certainly not going to bring me anywhere to get one, interest waned. Long story short, I am interested once again in picking it up, just didn't know diddle squat about decks. Danny you've been very helpful as well as whoever suggested the rider-waite tarot deck.

Universal Waite is Rider Waite=depends on where one purchases it. But being cheap at this point I would suggest getting some card stock and printing them out -sure you can even find the book online.

Jolefay,

I would have to agree w/ you that the Rider-Waite is the easiest for beginner's, however I don't see many people look at a deck of cards just by suggestions. But yes, the R-W deck should be recommend but I seen others who did not like the R-W deck since they 'feel' they could not interpret well. Some would simply believe that other decks are more easier than the R-W version. Someone here in the site mentioned she preferred the Thoth Deck more easier to use than the R-W Deck.

I guess some people have different special needs. I know I started off with the R-W version, taken by suggestion and I would suggest it to others. But its entirely up to them to choose or not, thus, references and resources available in many books or online research.
I find R-W easier to read and as you mentioned, I am on the phase of finally searching for a deck that I am ready to feel 'connected' with after learning form the R-W type. (Althought I will still continue to use the R-W version for its splendid art. )

As for others who wants to jump in and feel the deck without knowledge, let them. While others like me, where it takes time to learn and feel more acquainted with an educational deck, like to take it the longer way.

Very nice explanation. Mines are the the classy french and spanish ones.