Notation

Reading and writing music on a stave. Required for composition and often for performance.

What it is

Notation records pitch on a stave with clefs, and duration with note values, plus key signatures, time signatures, dynamics and articulation markings.

Where it applies

GCSE and A Level music.

How it works

Pitch is vertical position plus clef; rhythm is note shape. A key signature says which notes are consistently sharpened or flattened; a time signature says how many beats per bar and which note gets the beat.

How to use it in your work

Practise reading rhythms by clapping and counting aloud. Rhythm errors cost more in dictation questions than pitch errors.

Learn the key signatures in the circle of fifths rather than individually.

In composition, notate dynamics and articulation. Marks are available and they are routinely left blank.

Where to get help

Your teacher and your board's assessment criteria — these subjects are marked against four or five stated objectives, and reading them is the single most useful hour you can spend.