What does a Deceptive Cadence (DC) typically do?

A Deceptive Cadence serves to create a sense of expectation and then subvert that expectation by resolving to a chord other than the tonic. Typically, a Deceptive Cadence occurs when a dominant chord (V) is followed by a chord other than the tonic, most commonly the vi chord in a major key. This surprising shift creates a moment of dramatic tension in the music, as listeners anticipate the resolution to the tonic but are instead led to a different, unexpected chord. This technique adds emotional depth and complexity to musical phrasing.

The other choices do not describe the function of a Deceptive Cadence accurately. Direct resolution to the tonic is characteristic of a perfect cadence, and the IV-I progression is a standard plagal cadence. Transitioning the V chord to a flat key does not reflect the nature of a Deceptive Cadence, which focuses on the surprising resolution rather than a key change.