The method of the square
The square of Saturn is the simplest of the seven planetary squares. It holds the numbers one to nine in three rows, arranged so that every row, column and diagonal adds to fifteen.
| 4 | 9 | 2 |
| 3 | 5 | 7 |
| 8 | 1 | 6 |
To trace a word on it, each letter is first given a number from one to nine. This tool uses the simple scheme in which the alphabet is numbered in three rounds.
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I |
| J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R |
| S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z |
A line is then drawn from the cell of the first number to the cell of the second, and so on. Where two letters in succession fall in the same cell, the line makes a small loop. A circle marks the beginning and a short bar the end. Lifted off the square, the line is the sigil. Because the square is Saturn's, a sigil made on it is suited to purposes under that planet: structure, discipline, patience and the finishing of long work.
The method of the wheel
In the second method the twenty six letters are set in order around a circle and the word is traced from letter to letter across it. The wheel has no planetary character and can be used for any purpose. Older versions of the method arrange the letters in concentric rings.
The two reductions
Many practitioners simplify the statement before tracing it. Removing repeated letters leaves each letter once, in the order of its first appearance. Removing the vowels shortens it further. Both make the figure cleaner and harder to read back, which is the intention: the finished sign should carry the meaning without spelling it.
What to do with the result
Treat the figure on the screen as a sketch. Copy it by hand onto paper, slowly and with attention, simplifying or balancing the line until it satisfies you. Then use it as described under using a sigil: contemplate it within a short ritual, put it away, record the date and purpose in your diary, and set a day for review.
Keep to the good practice set out on that page. Work on your own affairs only, and choose aims that have an ordinary path by which they could come about.