The subject in its complete form is seldom announced twice in succession in the same voice. Contrapuntal devices and interchange of voices are often used to create interest and variety. Near the end of the fugue, there is usually at least one announcement of the subject in the tonic key. Sometimes a passing tone, or suspension, in one voice carries on the rhythmic flow, softening the dividing action of the cadence.
Episodes are almost always sequential, and interchange of material among voices is frequent.
Material from the subject, countersubject, or even new material may serve as the basis for episodes. Retrograde motion is seldom encountered. Pedal points are usually based on the tonic or dominant. Strettos often appear in the closing portions of fugues. Pedal points often appear in the latter portions of fugues.