(Here’s a tip if you are writing for piano - Use only black keys. That’s also a pentatonic scale.)

Start and end on the 1st note of the scale. That will give your song a “home” key and will be pleasing to the ear.

Decide on a time signature - 2/4. 3/4, 4/4. (Top number = number of beats (not notes) in each measure.)

Every song needs repeated tunes as well as contrasting tunes. ABA form is a good one with which to start. This means you have 2 contrasting tunes. You start with tune A. Next write something different. That’s tune B. End the song with tune A once again.

Experiment with different tunes and patterns. When you like one, write it down using letter names at first. (This allows you to write it down before you forget it.) Start with a a 4 measure tune.

Now start the same way (say the first 2 measures) and then do something different. This will make your song interesting. This is the question answer technique - part A is the “question” and part B is the “answer section.

Once you have your song written down in letter names, transfer it to music paper. Use the correct line or space for each note as well as the correct rhythm.

Give it a title. Make sure include your name as the composer.

Do you want to write down your song?

Print out music staff paper.

Be creative! Have fun!