FAQ
Common questions
Is this scientifically validated?
No, and we don't claim it is. Arcana is structured reflection — not a clinical assessment or psychological instrument. The scoring is deterministic and consistent (same answers = same archetype), but the archetypes are symbolic frameworks, not clinical diagnoses. Think of it as a mirror, not a measurement.
How do the archetypes work?
Your answers are scored across six personality dimensions: how you're motivated, how you structure your thinking, how expressive you are, where your attention naturally goes, your relationship to pace and planning, and how you handle conflict and tension. An algorithm matches your profile to the archetype whose dimensional pattern is closest to yours. There are 12 archetypes in total.
What's the tarot connection?
Each archetype is paired with three tarot cards: a core card (your dominant pattern), a shadow card (what tends to trip you up), and a pathway card (pointing toward growth). We use tarot as symbolic language — a set of archetypes that have persisted because they name things people recognize in themselves. You don't need to believe in tarot for the symbolism to be useful.
Is it free?
Yes, completely. There's no premium version, no credit card, no paywall. You answer 24 questions, enter your email, and get the full result — archetype, tarot mirror, strengths, shadow edge, and reflection prompt. All free.
Do I need to create an account?
No. You enter your email at the end to receive your results — that's the only requirement. You can optionally create an account later if you want to save and compare multiple results over time, but it's never required to see your result.
How do I access old results?
If you've completed the test before, visit /account and enter your email. We'll send you a login link that shows all your past results. No password needed — just the email you used when you took the test.
Can I retake the test?
Yes, as many times as you like. Your archetype can shift as you change, and it can also shift if you answer more honestly (or differently) the next time. Each result is saved separately so you can compare them.
What do you do with my email?
We send you your results immediately, then a short 7-day growth sequence: a strength deep dive on day 2, a shadow edge reflection on day 4, and a personal game plan on day 7. That's it. No newsletters, no selling your data, no ongoing marketing unless you opt in. Unsubscribe from any email and we stop.
How is this different from MBTI or Enneagram?
MBTI gives you a four-letter type based on binary dichotomies. Enneagram assigns you one of nine numbered types based on core motivation and fear. Arcana scores you across six continuous dimensions and matches you to one of 12 named archetypes — each with a tarot mirror and a specific shadow edge. The scoring is dimensional rather than categorical, which tends to feel more nuanced. None of these are clinical instruments; they're all frameworks for self-reflection.
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