Key of F - The F Major Scale

Notes in the F Major Scale:

FGABbCDE

The key of F contains 7 notes: F, G, A, Bb, C, D, E.This major key has a bright, uplifting sound and is one of the most common keys in popular music.

Chords in the Key of F

I
I
F major
ii
ii
G minor
iii
iii
A minor
IV
IV
Bb major
V
V
C major
vi
vi
D minor
vii°
vii°
E diminished

Common Chord Progressions

I - V - vi - IV
Pop progression
I
F major
→
V
C major
→
vi
D minor
→
IV
Bb major
I - IV - V
Classic rock
I
F major
→
IV
Bb major
→
V
C major
I - vi - IV - V
50s progression
I
F major
→
vi
D minor
→
IV
Bb major
→
V
C major
ii - V - I
Jazz cadence
ii
G minor
→
V
C major
→
I
F major
F Major Scale Pattern

The F Major scale follows the pattern of W-W-H-W-W-W-H (whole and half steps).

Scale formula: F - G - A - Bb - C - D - E

Key signature: 1 flat

Understanding the Key of F

Scale Degrees

Each chord in the key is built on a scale degree. Roman numerals show the chord's position in the scale. Uppercase = major chords, lowercase = minor chords.

Tonic Chord

The I chord (F major) is the tonic - the "home" chord that provides resolution and stability.

Dominant Chord

The V chord (C major) creates tension that naturally wants to resolve back to the tonic.