Which cadence is defined by the progression IV to I?

• A. Deceptive Cadence
• B. Half Cadence
• C. Plagal Cadence
• D. Authentic Cadence

Answer: (C)

Moving from the subdominant to the tonic defines a plagal cadence. When you’re in a major key and go from IV to I (for example, F major moving to C major in key of C), the harmony settles softly into the tonic. The bass typically moves from F to C, and common tones between the chords (like C) help the voices glide smoothly, giving a gentle sense of finality. This “amen” feel is characteristic of plagal cadences, which contrast with the stronger pull of an authentic cadence (V to I), the incomplete sense of a half cadence (ending on V), or a deceptive cadence (V moving somewhere other than I).