How chords are built
A chord is a group of notes built from a root note using a fixed pattern of intervals, measured in semitones. For example, a major chord is built from the root, plus 4 semitones (the major third), plus 7 semitones (the perfect fifth).
This calculator takes your chosen root note and chord type, applies the standard interval formula for that chord quality, and wraps each resulting note around the 12-note chromatic scale to show you the exact notes involved.
- Major: root, major 3rd, perfect 5th (0, 4, 7 semitones).
- Minor: root, minor 3rd, perfect 5th (0, 3, 7 semitones).
- 7th chords add a major or minor 7th interval on top of the triad.
- Diminished and augmented chords use altered fifths for their distinctive tension.
This tool is for general music theory learning and reference purposes.
Last reviewed August 2026