The minor key with the same key signature as a major key is called which?

• A. Parallel minor
• B. Relative minor
• C. Diatonic minor
• D. Relative major

Answer: (B)

In major and minor keys, there are pairs that share the exact same set of sharps or flats. The minor key that uses the same key signature as a given major key is the relative minor. This happens because the relative minor starts on the sixth degree of the major scale, so it uses the same notes and accidentals as that major key. For example, C major has no sharps or flats, and its relative minor is A minor, which also has no sharps or flats. To find it, move down a minor third from the major tonic (or count up six scale degrees to the sixth note). The other terms describe different relationships: parallel minor has the same tonic note but a different key signature, and the relative major is the major key that shares the same signature as a minor key.