Firstly, always choose whether the cards are facing you, or a partner.
The 'top' of the card is evident in the imagery, in that it is the top of the card when the card is upright. Use the 'top' of the card as the directional arrow.
Give the cards a directional 'theme' before reading. Is this:
A lunar spread?
A directional (North, South, East, West) spread?
An elemental (Earth, Air, Fire, Water) spread?
Ask the cards a question before using them. Avoid yes or no questions, as they tend to have boring, binary answers.
Take responsibility for your desires and claim personal power by adding an implied action to the question. For example, instead of asking: Will I ever find a mate? Ask: How can I improve my ability to seek a mate?
Remember, Tarot card reading is mostly for play, creative vision, and self-study.
DO NOT take Tarot card reading too seriously. These cards are for getting the metaphysical juices flowing, not worrying about impending doom or dwelling in negativity.
If the card is upright:
This card represents the dark moon, the beginning, North, the element of earth and/or it's corresponding Earth-based zodiac signs.
If the top of the card is on the right hand side:
This card represents the waxing moon, the opening of potential, East, and the element of air and corresponding zodiac signs.
If the card lands upside down, or "reversed":
This card represents the full moon, the realization of power, South, and the element of fire and corresponding zodiac signs.
If the top of the card is on the left-hand side:
This card represents the waning moon, reflection and integration, West, and the element of water and corresponding zodiac signs.
Again, it depends on the question you ask the cards before laying them down. It's important to give the cards context.
Need a square tarot deck? Explore my lunar-inspired tarot deck, here.