The Dotted Note

When learning an instrument the dotted note is something many students have a problem with. I am always answering questions such as

How many beats does a dotted crotchet have?
What does a dot after a note mean?
How do I count a dotted quaver?

I believe it is essential to know the theory behind how a dot following a note changes it. The rule is very simple

Here are some examples of how this works.

Test yourself

Test yourself by calculating the values of the dotted whole note (dotted semibreve) and dotted eighth note (dotted quaver) shown below. When you think you have worked out how many beats each note is worth click the note to find out if you are correct!

Double Dots

Click here for information on how to read and play notes with double dots!