What are sharp or flat signs immediately following the clef sign at the beginning of the staff…

3. How do I read the number of sharps or flats to find the key?
Use the order of sharps (F C G D A E B) and flats (B E A D G C F). Count the symbols to locate the key. For sharps, the major key is a half step above the last sharp. For flats, the major key is the second-to-last flat. The circle of fifths helps you read keys quickly.