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The major scales that we’ve learnt (ABRSM Grade 2) which use sharp key signatures are G, D and A major. The sharps in key signatures are always written in this order:

F# – C# – G#

in these treble clef positions:

sharp key signatures treble clef ABRSM grade 2

and these bass clef positions:

sharp key signatures bass clef ABRSM grade 2

You need to learn the exact positions of the sharps on the staff.

We never write the sharps in the following positions, for example:

incorrect key signature example

The F sharp and G sharp need to be moved up an octave.

Major Key Signatures with Flats

The major keys with flats we need to know about for ABRSM Grade Two Music Theory are F, Bb and Eb. For Trinity Grade 2, only F major is needed. The flats are always written in this order:

Bb – Eb – Ab

The treble clef flats are always written in these positions:

flat key signatures treble clef ABRSM grade 2

and the bass clef flats are written in these positions:

flat key signatures bass clef ABRSM grade 2

Again, the exact position of the flats is very important, so make sure you know where they go!