The Core Method

The Core Method is how we read a birth chart as one structure instead of a list of placements. It combines three things. The first is your core type, one of five. The second is the element balance between your Sun, your Moon and your Ascendant. The third is a strength level for each planet. Every statement we write points to a specific factor in your chart.

What problem does the method solve?

Most free birth chart reports give you thirty separate paragraphs. Sun in this sign, Moon in that one, Venus in a house. They rarely tell you how those pieces fit, or which ones matter most. The Core Method is built to answer that second question.

What are the five core types?

A core type describes how the main motives of a chart are organized. It shows what sits at the top, what supports it, and where tension tends to appear. There are five types. Each has its own page on how to spot it and where it struggles. You can browse them in the core architecture section. The type names are working names and may change before launch.

How does the Sun, Moon and Ascendant balance work?

Each of these three points falls in a sign. Every sign belongs to one of the four elements, which are fire, earth, air and water. The combination of the three elements shows where your temperament is concentrated and where it is thin. We use it as a starting point for the core type and for core stability, meaning how consistent the main signals of your chart are.

What do planet strength levels mean?

Each planet gets one of four levels, based on its condition in the chart:

Level	In plain words
Strong	The planet has room to work and expresses easily.
Harmonious	The planet works smoothly with its surroundings.
Weak	The planet has less support and needs conscious effort.
Afflicted	The planet is under pressure from other factors and shows up with friction.

These levels describe tendencies. A weak planet can still do good work, and a strong one promises nothing on its own.

How is every statement tied to the chart?

Each claim in a report comes from a named factor. That might be a placement, an aspect, a strength level or a pattern. If a sentence cannot point to something in your chart, it does not belong in the report. Human review checks exactly this.

What does the method not do?

It does not predict events or dates, and it does not replace medical, legal or financial advice. Our disclaimer explains the limits.

Where does the calculation come from?

Positions are calculated by our own engine on top of the Swiss Ephemeris. You can run the same engine for free in the birth chart calculator. For how text is drafted and reviewed, read How we write.