to your question it's sapposed to be both. My first deck came with a study book which I read till I turned blue in the face. Eighteen months really before I ever gave a reading. I always had the book with me at the reading to help explain exactly what each card represented. I did only the simplest 10 card set up and as I said--I let everyone know it was just entertainment. Vibrations pass from the reader through the cards to the client who shuffles and cuts and some kind of connection is made. I was more amazed than anybody else at the accuracy--particularly because these social events brought curious strangers who I knew nothing about. Of special interest that stands out--only once did anyone I read for get the ring card meaning a definet marriage in the future. His girl was there and they were not getting along. She was a brunette - the cards were certain it would be a blond. He married that blond four years later. In only one reading did anyone get the death card which most dont know which it really is and just how it has to fall. A friend was obsessed with being read all the time but I'd make him wait 6 weeks inbtween readings which is suggested. He had a good recognition of the cards and one evening after a few frienly beers between friends he said "I waited the six weeks and I really want you to read for me tonight. The Death card fell exactly in the position that left no doubt. He jumped up yelling "oh my god" and I never prepared myself as to what I'd do if this ever happened. With bad cards you can give advice and redirect. There was nothing I could say in this case. He was murdered just shy of a year later. I feel him with me often and I have many friends on the other side.