Gather a random set of people to complete a group project, and you’ll easily spot a few distinct approaches to the task: The self-starter will take control as team leader, the flexible creative will go with the flow, and the steadfast coordinator will ensure whatever the thing is gets done. Roughly, each of these modes of directing energy and reacting to a situation corresponds with a modality in astrology, of which there are three in total (in the above scenario: cardinal, mutable, and fixed, respectively), each encompassing four of the zodiac signs.

In astrology, the zodiac signs are all grouped into different classifications: triplicities (also called elements), quadruplicities (or modalities), and dualities. These categories color certain traits that they share: how they express their energies, what they’re motivated by, and their overall modus operandi. Knowing what modality your zodiac sign falls into is key to understanding your own cosmic quirks and expression of energy, as they speak to behavioral style and the circumstances most suited to your personality, says SirCheo, an astrologer and psychic empath for spiritual-advice platform Keen.com.

Learn more about your zodiac sign’s modality in astrology below.

What is a modality in astrology?

Modalities in astrology—also called quadruplicities because they each include a group of four signs—are made up of three groups in which the signs fall: Cardinal, fixed, and mutable signs. Canonically, the modalities are defined by the seasons, and you can discern each astrological modality by when in the year they’re aligned (and also remember the behavior it tends to encapsulate).

The start of each season is marked by a cardinal sign (Aries for spring, Cancer for summer, Libra for fall, Capricorn for winter), while the midpoint progression is symbolized by a fixed sign (Taurus for spring, Leo for summer, Scorpio for fall, Aquarius for winter), and the season’s end and transition into the next season comes with a mutable sign (Gemini for spring, Virgo for summer, Sagittarius for fall, Pisces for winter).

“The modalities of the zodiac symbolize three universal life conditions: creation (cardinal), preservation (fixed), and transformation (mutable).” —astrologer and psychic empath SirCheo

Behaviorally, the modalities of the zodiac symbolize three universal life conditions: creation (cardinal), preservation (fixed), and transformation (mutable)—and the astrological system is organized so that each season has its own cardinal, fixed, and mutable sign, SirCheo says.

So, to revisit the group-project framework, the cardinal signs are the energetic initiators who vibe in leadership roles, while the fixed signs are the dependable stabilizers who get things done, and the mutable signs are the easygoing adapters who gravitate toward spontaneity.

How to interpret your astrological modality

Because your sun sign (aka the zodiac sign you’d read for in a horoscope) is typically most indicative of your overall identity and personality, the modality of that sign will likely be the one that reflects your behavioral approach. That said, a variety of planets in different signs make up the whole of your natal chart, and depending on the modalities that they all embody, your energetic approach could be more cardinal, fixed, or mutable in different aspects of your life.

For example, the modality of your moon sign will have greater sway over how you process and react to anything emotionally driven (since the moon rules over the emotional realm). People with cardinal moon signs tend to openly and directly express their feelings, while those with fixed moon signs often suppress them, and those with mutable moon signs do just the opposite, rapidly responding to different scenarios with ever-changing emotions, says SirCheo.

In general, the more planets in your natal chart that fall within any given modality, the more likely you are to reflect that modality’s associated behavioral style in all aspects of your personality—and the less likely you are to demonstrate any of the other approaches. Someone who has an even mix of cardinal, fixed, and mutable signs in their chart, alternatively, might take a different energetic tack depending on the situation in which they find themselves.

When you know the traits of your modality, not only can you better understand your life approach, but you can also place how you operate in terms of relationships. Did I mention that dating within your modality can mean a fruitful partnership?

With that in mind, read on to learn how each modality in astrology is expressed in each zodiac sign.

What the modalities say about your zodiac sign

Cardinal (Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn)

Cardinal signs start off the seasons each year, and similarly, take initiative in all their endeavors. “Cardinal signs like to be first, taking charge, and leading the show,” says SirCheo. “They crave followers and may get frustrated if others don’t quickly follow their lead.”

In the best of circumstances, a cardinal sign is a natural-born leader, summoning the best qualities of those on their team with grace and panache. And when they’re functioning on a lower octave? They could fixate on control or skew toward micromanagement.

Aries

Not only does Aries season kick off spring, but it also marks the beginning of the zodiac new year. Mirroring their cardinal modality, Aries zodiac signs embody an eagerness to experience and learn, impulsivity, and a fiery vitality that’s hard to extinguish. “[Aries] make fiery and brave leaders that are quick to go on the offensive,” explains astrologer Erin River Sunday. Their disposition makes total sense for the fearless sign.

Cancer

Cancer birthdays happen during the start of summer, an era when outdoor gatherings, events, and family reunions are in full bloom. In that way, Cancer is like summer nostalgia, allowing their hope for the warmer months to drive them. “They are the ultimate ‘rulers of the roost’ and ensure their domestic environment is physically and emotionally safe,” says Sunday. As a protective and compassionate sign, Cancers are at the forefront of preserving what they love.

Libra

Libras celebrate their solar return during the start of fall, full-sending a season of social and familial gatherings, which is on par with the cardinal modality. “They are social initiators who know how to get a good group together that will mesh well and feel peaceful,” says Sunday. “They curate aesthetics and set trends.” Libras aren’t shy when it comes to initiating communication and understanding.

Capricorn

Winter—aka when Capricorn season begins—might be a time for cozy evenings indoors or vacations with family, but Capricorn’s eyes never waver from the prize. They take after their cardinal modality by planting seeds and moving toward their long-term plans. “They make fantastic leaders at work and have innate strength in moving the needle for a team effort,” explains Sunday.

Fixed (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius)

Think of fixed signs as, well, fixed in place or fixated on a goal. “Fixed signs uphold traditions, maintain responsibilities, and work steadily to complete larger projects,” says SirCheo. Because of their steadfast reliability, they can always be counted on to get something done, and they’re similarly devoted and loyal as friends and partners. People of this modality tend to struggle when they’re faced with upheaval: They have strong opinions and convictions and may occasionally resist change to the point of perceived stubbornness.

Taurus

After enduring long winter months, Taurus season blooms, planted deep in the roots of spring. In that way, Taurus is resilient, firmly rooted in themselves and their self-value. “They are in it for the long haul and are extremely patient, diligent, and determined to get things done the right way—no matter how long it takes!” explains Sunday.

Leo

Leo birthdays fall during the height of summer. Full of excitement, thrills, and a hedonistic lifestyle, Leo takes after its fixed modality by never wavering in their worthiness. “They choose the things they’re best at and deep dive on those talents so they can be known as a professional in that space,” Sunday says. Expect a Leo to deliver when it comes to achieving whatever sets their hearts on fire

Scorpio

Mirroring the occult-ish aura that surrounds fall, Scorpio zodiac signs are fixed on the themes of mystery and transformations made as they head toward the end of the year. “They feel emotions to the deepest depths of their truth and will leave no stone left unturned,” explains Sunday. “[Scorpios] aren’t afraid to keep digging.” Being able to face the emotional intensity at its peak is how their fixed modality shines.

Aquarius

Falling at the peak of winter, Aquarius people don’t let up when it comes to the promise of progress. The forward-thinking sign embodies hope and rebellion, and standing firm in their rejection of societal norms is a major way their fixed modality shows up in their behavior. “They have a clear vision for the future they want to create and will stop at nothing to make it a reality,” says Sunday.

Mutable (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces)

Almost in direct opposition to the fixed signs, mutable signs thrive off change, chance, and chaos, making them the life of the party, says SirCheo. “They are down for just about anything and are willing to try anything at least once,” he says. “But while they love this quality in others, they also need people that bring natural structure into their lives to truly thrive.” In general, they work best in situations that provide opportunities for variety and spontaneity, even if they occasionally have trouble channeling their ongoing flurry of thoughts and ideas into action.

As for how the different signs reflect this transformative energy, adds SirCheo, Gemini disperses information, Virgo disperses skills, Sagittarius disperses enthusiasm, and Pisces disperses dreams and visions.

Gemini

With birthdays falling between spring and summer, Gemini has no problem with the change that comes with life’s uncertainty. “They are known for changing their minds and juggling many things at once,” says Sunday. Plus, their mutable modality allows Geminis to wear many hats—and their curiosity inspires them to gain knowledge and unique experiences. “[Geminis are] extremely flexible and can understand many perspectives,” Sunday adds.

Virgo

Virgos work well under pressure, which makes sense as their season shifts from summer and fall. “[Virgos] can handle multiple tasks at once and are great at compartmentalizing and organization,” Sunday explains. “They are great editors and whittle things down to the perfection that already exists.” It makes sense that they’re mutable signs—they’re always prepared for the worst with a backup plan for their backup plan.

Sagittarius

Sagittarius is a pro at going with the flow as their season pivots from fall to winter. “They enjoy spontaneous adventures and thrilling journeys with winding, unpredictable roads,” Sunday adds. Their mutable modality attributes to Sagittairus’ free-spirited attitude—not only are they unafraid of tackling challenges, but they thrive off of the unpredictability of life and crave experience and spiritual truths.

Pisces

Similar to the way their season shifts from winter to spring, Pisces shapeshift between worlds, thinking abstractly while being particularly attuned to their emotional sphere. Their mutable modality shows up in their ability to adapt to fantasy and reality. “They can relate to anyone and everyone, all at once,” explains Sunday. “[Pisces] quickly empathize and deeply want to help people in many different circumstances.”