How to Memorize the Triads (Chords) of a Major Key

There are 12 major keys, each with 7 chords, which might seem overwhelming. But don't worry, I’m here to make it super simple for you.

We’re going to do this in just two simple steps.

Step One: Find All the Triads of a Major Key

The good news is that every single major scale follows the same pattern of triads or chords. It’s really easy to find the chords, even if you don’t know the pattern yet.

To do this, we’ll pick a major key and play the scale. Let’s start with C major because that’s easy.

(If you don’t know your major scales, I have another guide on how to memorize all of them, which will make you unstoppable with scales and chords.)

We’re going to build a triad, which is a three-note chord, on each scale degree. The cool thing is, if you follow the key signature, you’ll end up with the correct triads.

In the key of C, there are no sharps or flats, so all of these triads will be on white keys only.

When you do this in other major keys, you’ll find that the chords always form a pattern:

• The chord built on the first scale degree is called the I chord and it’s always major in a major key.
• The chord on the second scale degree is called the ii chord and it’s always minor.
• The chord on the third scale degree is called the iii chord and it’s always minor.
• The chord on the fourth scale degree is called the IV chord and it’s always major.
• The chord on the fifth scale degree is called the V chord and it’s always major.
• The chord on the sixth scale degree is called the vi chord and it’s always minor.
• The chord on the seventh scale degree is called the vii* chord and it’s always diminished.

Every major scale follows this pattern! Let’s try it with G major.

The notes of the G major scale are G, A, B, C, D, E, F#, and G. We’ll follow these notes as we build a triad on each scale degree, remembering the F#:

• I is Major
• ii is minor
• iii is minor
• IV is major
• V is major
• vi is minor
• vii* is diminished

Additional Practice Techniques

To further solidify your understanding, connect the chord number (scale degree) with its quality (major or minor) and the specific note in the key. For example, in the key of G major:

• G Major (1st Chord)
• A Minor (2nd Chord)
• B Minor (3rd Chord)
• C Major (4th Chord)
• D Major (5th Chord)
• E Minor (6th Chord)
• F# Diminished (7th Chord)

Step Two: Memorize the Triads Pattern

Now that you know how to find all the triads of a major key, let’s talk about how to memorize them.

To memorize this pattern, say it over and over again. Play the triads backwards and forwards, and play them with both hands. You can also try playing the chords broken (one note at a time) and jump around, doing them in a different order.

Use flashcards! They work for most learning styles, every age, and every level of player. You can use these flashcards to mix up the order of the triads and practice finding them on the piano. This will really strengthen the connection between your brain and your hands.

The great news is, if you want the free flashcards, I've created them for you to download. — Go snag your free flashcards here.

To see this method in action, check out the full length tutorial on the YouTube channel. 👇🏻