Scale Formulas
Whole/half step patterns for all common scales. W = whole step (2 semitones), H = half step (1 semitone).
| Scale | Notes | Pattern | Degrees | Example (C) |
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| Mode | Notes | Pattern | Character | Example (C) |
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| Scale | Notes | Pattern | Degrees | Example (C) |
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| Scale | Notes | Pattern | Note | Example (C) |
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Scale Formulas
Scale Formulas is a reference chart of whole and half step patterns for major, minor, the seven modes, pentatonics, blues and more. Every scale is given as its interval pattern so you can build it from any root.
Reading a step pattern
A scale formula is a sequence of steps: W for a whole tone (two semitones) and H for a half tone (one semitone). Apply the pattern from any starting note and you get that scale in that key.
The modes are all the same seven notes as a major scale started from a different degree. Dorian is the major pattern started from the second degree, Mixolydian from the fifth. That is why they share a key signature but sound completely different, since the tonal centre has moved.
Worked example
Applying the Dorian pattern from D:
- FormulaW H W W W H W
- StartD
- NotesD E F G A B C
Result: The white keys from D to D. Same notes as C major, but D is home, which gives Dorian its minor sound with a raised sixth.
When it helps
- Building any scale from any root without memorising all twelve keys.
- Understanding what actually separates one mode from another.
- Finding the one altered note that changes a scale's character.
- Transferring a scale between instruments.
Common mistakes
- Thinking the modes are difficult because they have Greek names. Each is just a major scale started somewhere else.
- Counting the last step wrong. Every seven-note scale formula has seven steps that add up to twelve semitones and land back on the octave.
