There are about fourteen common variation techniques that can be used when developing motives. Some of the most common are:1. Repetition - this is one of the most common types of variation techniques that can be used. The composer just repeats the motive exactly like the original motive. 2. Sequence - the motive is repeated but this time it is either transposed to another key or starts on another note in the same key. 3. Extension - the motive is extended. In other words, the length of the original motive is increased.