The twelve signs of the zodiac are divided into three modes — cardinal, fixed, and mutable. Each mode contains four zodiac signs, which leads this way of dividing the signs to sometimes be called “the quadruplicities.” It describes how the signs’ elemental energy is expressed. In general, the cardinal signs tend to be forceful, the fixed signs stubborn, and the mutable signs flexible, but there are of course shades of nuance.
Cardinal Signs
Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn
The cardinal signs are the initiators of the zodiac, which aligns with the fact their seasons begin on solstices and equinoxes. They kick off new seasons, bring new energy, and create change in their surroundings wherever they go. These are signs that are associated with activity—starting lots of projects, though finishing them depends on a whole host of other factors. The ambition and enthusiasm in someone with many cardinal placements, however? That’s unmistakable.
Fixed Signs
Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius
It’s not just about being stubborn, though someone who finds many fixed signs in their chart might find that streak features prominently. Change can be hard, and patterns can be useful as well as comfortable. Steady commitment is a virtue, as is patience and straightforward communication. Don’t confuse the essential nature of fixed signs for a negative. Without this calm and centered energy, no project gets completed, nor is there anyone around to listen when the going gets tough. The confidence and self-reliance of fixed sign-oriented individuals can move mountains if you let it.
Mutable Signs
Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces
Flexibility can look like many things: the ability to adapt, to go with the flow, to shift on a whim. While some find the mutable energy unnerving in its ability to pivot, its expression is essentially one of creativity and problem-solving. Mutable sign placements aren’t afraid to go around, over, or under an obstacle, however unconventional their solution. This allows for an intuitive approach—folks with lots of mutable energy are keyed into the emotional landscape and their intuition. They aim to please everyone, but their resourcefulness can get them in trouble when they can’t find their own boundaries.
Modes help guide our understanding not just of the signs, but of houses, planets, and more. Elements, modes, and other systems of understanding astrology’s parts help us to see the relationships between all the pieces of the puzzle, not just fragments to memorize. Make sure to check out your birth chart to learn more about how everything comes together in your unique and personal astrology for a deeper understanding of you.