Time signature

Common time – four quarter-note beats per bar. The default in pop, rock, and most Western music.

The song moves between two or more time signatures.

Waltz time – three quarter-note beats per bar. Creates a lilting, flowing feel.

Compound quadruple – four groups of three eighth notes. Common in blues, ballads, and slow rock.

Song uses a non-standard time signature outside the common 2/4, 3/4, 4/4, 6/8, and 12/8.

The song moves between three or more distinct time signatures across its sections.

Compound duple – two groups of three eighth notes. Creates a swaying, rocking feel distinct from 3/4.

March time – two quarter-note beats per bar. Strong downbeat emphasis, used in marches and polkas.

Five quarter-note beats per bar – an asymmetric meter creating an off-kilter, restless feel. Famously used in Take Five.

Seven quarter-note beats per bar – an asymmetric meter often grouped as 4+3 or 3+4.

Five eighth-note beats per bar – typically grouped 3+2 or 2+3.

Compound triple – three groups of three eighth notes. Less common but creates a rolling, triple feel.

Six beats per bar, typically in two groups of three – slow waltz feel.

Ten eighth-note beats per bar – a rare asymmetric meter, often grouped as subdivisions of 2s and 3s.

Seven eighth-note beats per bar – typically grouped 2+2+3 or 3+2+2. Common in Balkan and progressive rock.

Eleven eighth-note beats per bar – a rare, complex asymmetric meter.

Cut time – two beats per bar, each subdividing into two half-notes.