01
Count keys of the same color.
Mode formulas
A quick reference you can scan in seconds.
This page condenses the method into the core movement rules and the seven formulas you need to remember.
How the method works
Core rules, quickly
Use this page as a reference board: a fast reminder of the movement logic plus the seven mode patterns in both languages.
02
When you cross E-F or B-C, watch for the intersection rule.
03
Apply CC when the mode formula asks for a color change.
04
If formula CC and intersection CC happen together, they cancel out.
Mode formulas
Seven formulas, two readings
Each mode card keeps the compact pattern, the Color-Count rule, and the traditional tone-semitone reading in one place.
33
Major (Ionian)
Short C-C rule: 33 C-C rule: 3 CC 3 CC Traditional: T T S T T T S
The bright reference sound. In traditional theory, this is the major scale.
231
Dorian
Short C-C rule: 231 C-C rule: 2 CC 3 CC 1 Traditional: T S T T T S T
A minor sound with a more open and balanced character because of the raised sixth.
132
Phrygian
Short C-C rule: 132 C-C rule: 1 CC 3 CC 2 Traditional: S T T T S T T
A darker modal sound, immediately marked by the half step above the root.
42
Lydian
Short C-C rule: 42 C-C rule: 4 CC 2 CC Traditional: T T T S T T S
A bright major-like sound whose raised fourth creates the strongest sense of lift.
321
Mixolydian
Short C-C rule: 321 C-C rule: 3 CC 2 CC 1 Traditional: T T S T T S T
A major sound with a lowered seventh, often heard as relaxed or blues-adjacent.
222
Minor (Aeolian)
Short C-C rule: 222 C-C rule: 2 CC 2 CC 2 Traditional: T S T T S T T
The natural minor reference, useful as a familiar comparison against the other minor modes.
123
Locrian
Short C-C rule: 123 C-C rule: 1 CC 2 CC 3 Traditional: S T T S T T T
The most unstable mode, marked by the diminished fifth above the root.
The keyboard stays visible
The formulas are easier to remember when they stay tied to the shape of the instrument instead of floating as abstract theory.
C
D
E
F
G
A
B
C
C♯
D♯
F♯
G♯
A♯
Intersection E-F
Intersection B-C
Take the next step
Use the formulas inside the Playground.
The cheatsheet becomes stronger when it supports a real keyboard path. Move next to Playground or revisit the full Method page.