Modality qualifies the subject–predicate relation. The eight simple modes are unrestricted necessary, unrestricted permanent, generally conditional, generally customary, time-specific, time-indefinite, generally absolute and generally possible.
When examining a modal proposition, ask three questions in sequence:
1. Is it affirmative or negative, and of what subject?
2. Is its scope tied to the subject's existence, a descriptive title, a time, or merely actuality?
3. Is its force necessity, permanence, actuality, or possibility by denying necessity of the opposite?
Mastery of these eight forms prepares for the seven compound modalities, in which modal qualifications are combined.