The circle of fifths is the most useful single diagram in tonal music. This chart shows all 12 major keys on the outer ring, all 12 relative minors on the inner ring, and the key signatures (number of sharps or flats) around the outside.

What is on the chart

• 12 major keys arranged clockwise from C (top) by perfect fifths.
• 12 relative minor keys on the inner ring.
• Key signatures around the outer edge (0 sharps at C, 7 sharps at C#, 7 flats at Cb).
• Enharmonic equivalents at the bottom of the circle (F# = Gb, C# = Db).
• Common progressions annotated for three keys (C, G, D) as worked examples.

How to use the chart

1. Find your key. Locate the major key you are playing on the outer ring. Its relative minor sits directly inside.
2. Count sharps or flats. Clockwise from C adds sharps; counter-clockwise adds flats.
3. Find the neighbors. The keys immediately clockwise and counter-clockwise are the strongest modulation destinations.
4. Spot the workhorse progressions. I-V-vi-IV uses three adjacent segments of the circle. See the essay for why.

Companion tools and essays

• Interactive circle of fifths: click any key to hear the scale and chord progressions.
• The circle of fifths, explained: the essay that walks through the chart.
• The minor circle: the inner ring in detail.