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Music TheoryThe Circle of Fifths: The Ultimate Cheat Sheet
The Circle of Fifths: The Ultimate Cheat Sheet
Goal
Learn how all keys are connected and how to master sharps and flats.
The Roadmap of Keys
The Circle of Fifths tells you how many sharps or flats are in every key. Moving "Clockwise" adds sharps. Moving "Counter-Clockwise" adds flats.
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Sharp Order
**F**at **C**ats **G**o **D**own **A**nd **E**at **B**irds (F-C-G-D-A-E-B)
| Key | Sharps/Flats | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| C Major | None | All white keys |
| G Major | 1 Sharp | F# |
| D Major | 2 Sharps | F#, C# |
| A Major | 3 Sharps | F#, C#, G# |
| F Major | 1 Flat | Bb |
Mini Exercise
"Try to name the sharps in E Major using the "Fat Cats" acronym! (Hint: It has 4 sharps)."
Quick Recap
The Circle connects all 12 keys.
It helps you transpose songs instantly.
Mastering the order of sharps is a piano superpower.
Apply Your Knowledge
Practice what you just learned with these songs