A plagal cadence is best described by which progression?

• A. I to IV
• B. V to I
• C. IV to I
• D. ii to V

Answer: (C)

A plagal cadence centers on movement from the subdominant to the tonic, typically IV to I in major keys (and iv to i in minor). This shift produces a gentle, hearable sense of resolution that many hymn-like cadences end with—the familiar “Amen” feel. It’s softer than a V–I authentic cadence, which has a stronger, more definitive pull because the leading tone from V resolves up to I. The other options don’t capture that subdominant-to-tonic resolve: I to IV moves away from the tonic, V to I is the strong authentic cadence, and ii to V sets up a resolution but doesn’t itself deliver the characteristic plagal color.