Your birth chart is a comprehensive map of the location of every planet, asteroid, and significant astrological point on your birth day, viewed from the place you were born. This system of astrology is based on the belief that an individual's personality and life path can be determined by studying this data. Birth charts are commonly used by both Western natal astrology and Vedic astrology, but are calculated differently.

Your sun sign, also known as a star sign or zodiac sign, is your main astrological sign. When people ask, "What's your sign?," they're almost certainly referring to your sun sign. This designation determines the core of your personality — your natural abilities, gifts, and overall self. Sun signs are the ones you're most likely to find in horoscopes, which some people believe can predict the future.

Your moon sign is at the other end of the spectrum. While a sun sign reflects your true self, a moon sign is sometimes referred to as your shadow self. Your moon sign reflects the more private parts of your personality — emotions, desires, and intimacy are all ruled by this icon. Like the name implies, your moon sign is determined by the location of the moon at the time of your birth.

Rising signs are also known as ascendant signs because they're all about the sign that was on the horizon — literally rising — when you were born. While sun signs change approximately once a month, and moon signs change every two or three days, rising signs can change in as little as a couple of hours, so you'll need to know your exact time of birth. Your rising sign exemplifies your outer self — the parts of your personality that you project to others.

Aries: Some people call you opinionated. Others call you tactless. You can be bossy and short-tempered, but you have great instincts and are a natural leader. Symbol: Ram Element: Fire Taurus: Those with Taurus rising signs are fierce and strong-willed. You're firmly grounded and able to stay calm under pressure. You can also be a little materialistic, but what's wrong with enjoying the finer things in life? Symbol: Bull Element: Earth

Gemini: You come across as outgoing and talkative, but your outward energy often hides your true feelings. You might become overwhelmed if you try to take on too many things at once, so remember that it's okay to slow down every now and then. Symbol: Twins Element: Air Cancer: If you're a Cancer rising, people would probably describe you as sensitive and nurturing. You're probably the "mom" of your friend group, and the one other people come to for help. Symbol: Crab Element: Water

Leo: You're fun and confident, but also crave drama. People are drawn to you, and you often find yourself being the center of attention. Symbol: Lion Element: Fire Virgo: You're organized, reliable, and prone to being a perfectionist. Try not to get too bogged down or caught up in the details, and remember to relax every now and then. Symbol: Maiden Element: Earth

Libra: You're a people-pleaser. On one hand, that means that people see you as sweet and kind. On the other, it makes you indecisive at times. Remember, though — you can't please everyone. Symbol: Scales Element: Air Scorpio: Your calm exterior belies a rich emotional inner life. It can be difficult for you to let your guard down and open up to people. Symbol: Scorpion Element: Water

Sagittarius: You're warm, funny, and outspoken, but can also come off as being overly blunt. You may be prone to mischief, but can get away with a lot due to your natural charm. Symbol: Archer Element: Fire Capricorn: Those with Capricorn rising signs appear calculated and controlled. You're highly driven and will stop at nothing to achieve your goals. Symbol: Goat Element: Earth

Aquarius: The consummate individual, you walk your own path in life. You might be described as eccentric, and you definitely like to think outside the box. Nothing would bother you more than blending in with the crowd. Symbol: Water bearer Element: Air Pisces: If you're a Pisces rising, people have probably called you a dreamer. You often have your head in the clouds, but you're caring, sensitive, and compassionate. Symbol: Fish Element: Water