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Step 1
Chords are based on scales. Consecutively number each note of the scale beginning with the root or first note of the scale. For the key of C, C is the root or first note, so number that note as C(1) and then number the remaining notes of the scale: D(2) E(3) F(4) G(5) A(6) B(7).
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Step 2
A major chord consists of the 1, 3, 5 notes of its scale. A C Maj chord is C(1) E(3) G(5). An A Maj chord is A(1) C#(3) E(5) based on the A major scale: A(1) B(2) C#(3) D(4) E(5) F#(6) G#(7).
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Step 3
A minor chard consists of the 1, b3, 5 notes of its scale. The only difference between the major and minor chords is that in the minor, the third is flatted. Based on the previous steps, a C Min chord is C(1) Eb (b3) G(5) and an A Min chord is A(1) C(b3) E(5).
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Step 4
These simple formulas quickly help you create major and minor chords. To create any major chord, use the first, third, and fifth notes of the chord's scale. To create any minor chord, use the first, third, and fifth notes of the chord's scale and flat the third note.
