The I Ching divination is one of China's oldest methods of prediction. Its core lies in obtaining a hexagram through specific procedures and then interpreting the outcome—whether auspicious or inauspicious—based on the hexagram statements and line texts. For beginners, mastering a few basic methods of casting hexagrams is the most important first step.

The most traditional method is the yarrow stalk method, also known as the "Great Expansion" method. This approach requires fifty yarrow stalks, which undergo three repetitions of the four steps—dividing, setting aside, counting, and returning the remainder—to determine a single line. A complete hexagram of six lines is formed after eighteen such changes. Although the process is intricate, its ceremonial nature helps the diviner achieve a state of calm and focus.

For modern practitioners, the three-coin method is more straightforward and practical. Take three identical coins, silently concentrate on the question at hand, shake the coins, and then toss them. The outcome—heads or tails—determines the nature of the lines: three heads indicate an old yang (changing) line, three tails an old yin (changing) line, two heads and one tail a young yang (unchanging) line, and two tails and one head a young yin (unchanging) line. Repeat this process six times, recording the lines from the bottom up to form a six-line hexagram.

Another simple method is the number-based hexagram casting: randomly choose three numbers. The remainder of the first number divided by 8 corresponds to the upper trigram, the remainder of the second number divided by 8 corresponds to the lower trigram, and the remainder of the third number divided by 6 indicates the changing line. This method is quick and convenient, suitable for urgent situations or when tools are unavailable.

Regardless of the method used, the diviner's mental state is crucial. One must remain calm and focused on the question, avoiding distractions. The purpose of divination is not merely to predict the future but to gain insight from the hexagram to make better decisions.

It is particularly important to note that I Ching divination should not be overused. For the same matter, without significant changes, repeated divination is discouraged. As the ancients said, "Repeated inquiries show disrespect; disrespect yields no guidance," meaning excessive divination undermines its accuracy and solemnity.