I Ching Changes)

The most popular modern method. Toss three coins six times to build a hexagram from bottom to top.

1. Hold your question clearly in mind.
2. Take three coins (traditionally Chinese coins, but any coins work).
3. Toss all three coins at once.
4. Record the result: Heads=3, Tails=2. Sum the three values.
5. Sum of 6 = Old Yin (changing broken line, marked with ✕)
6. Sum of 7 = Young Yang (stable solid line)
7. Sum of 8 = Young Yin (stable broken line)
8. Sum of 9 = Old Yang (changing solid line, marked with ○)
9. Repeat 5 more times, building the hexagram from Line 1 (bottom) to Line 6 (top).
10. Read the primary hexagram. Changing lines transform into the Changed Hexagram.

The ancient traditional method using 50 yarrow stalks. More complex but considered more authentic and meditative.

1. Take 50 yarrow stalks (or bamboo sticks). Set one aside — you work with 49.
2. Divide the 49 stalks randomly into two piles (representing Heaven and Earth).
3. Take one stalk from the right pile and place it between the little finger and ring finger of your left hand (representing Humanity).
4. Count off the left pile in groups of 4. Place the remainder (1-4 stalks) between ring finger and middle finger.
5. Count off the right pile in groups of 4. Place the remainder between middle finger and index finger.
6. Gather all stalks between your fingers and set aside. This is the first count.
7. Repeat the entire process two more times with the remaining stalks.
8. After three rounds, the total set aside will be 6, 7, 8, or 9 — determining the line type.
9. Repeat the entire process 5 more times for all 6 lines.
10. 6 = Old Yin (changing), 7 = Young Yang, 8 = Young Yin, 9 = Old Yang (changing).