In astrology, modal emphasis describes how strongly or in what way one or more of the three modalities, Cardinal, Fixed, and Mutable, appear within a natal chart. It may be considered by examining which planets occupy signs belonging to each modality and how those placements relate to the rest of the chart. A modality may be prominently represented, moderately represented, less represented, or concentrated in particular parts of the chart. Modal emphasis is not a fixed personality label or judgment. Its meaning depends on the planets involved, their placements and relationships, and the larger pattern of the chart.