11 Half and Whole Steps
The distance from any key to its nearest neighbor, whether a black or white key, is a half step.
Half steps on the keyboard
Two half steps equal one whole step.
Whole steps on the keyboard
Distinguishing between half steps and whole steps is essential for playing scale patterns. Identify each interval below as a half step (H) or whole step (W):
 |
H or W |
 |
H or W |
 |
H or W |
 |
H or W |
 |
H or W |
 |
H or W |