In astrology, Virgo refers to those born 24 August through 23 September, and is the sixth sign of the Zodiac. A Mutable Earth sign, Virgos are stable, but flexible. Virgos can be too critical of others when, instead of focusing on their own possible improvements, they look for flaws in others. However, Virgos can accurately analyze situations and see reasonable actions for improvement when they use a fair-minded approach.

Many Virgos are neat, clean, and fussy about how things should be done. They are analytical by nature and often value all sorts of systems. Reliable and practical, they are task-centered and do well in methodical, analytical jobs such as those in information technology (IT) and accounting.

Virgo, like Gemini, is ruled by changeable, adaptable Mercury. But, whereas Gemini is always seeking out new activities, Virgo usually prefers being on familiar ground. Both signs are intelligent and flexible, but Virgos thrive on details and Geminis would rather skip the details and concentrate on the big picture.

The symbol for Virgo is the Virgin and Virgo has a feminine reactive energy rather than a masculine expressive energy. Some Virgos can be quite shy and cautious. Many Virgos can worry almost to the point of being neurotic.

Classic Virgos tend to stay in the background at work, but often long to be noticed and move up in the organization. While they can be self-important and irritable at work, they can also be dependable and well-organized. A typical Virgo understands the importance of proper dress at work, although they are usually careful not to show off or upstage their boss.

Some colors associated with Virgo are dark blue and white. Virgo rules the intestines. Keywords for the Virgo personality are analytical, critical, methodical, and flexible.

The other Earth signs, Capricorn and Taurus, are the most compatible with the Earthy Virgo as they are stable and conventional signs. Libra, Scorpio, Leo, and another Virgo may also be quite compatible. Sagittarius may be too wild and unpredictable for a more conventional Virgo and Gemini may not seem serious enough to a Virgo. Pisces may seem too introspective to Virgo. Aquarius and Aries have a neutral compatibility with Virgo. Famous Virgo natives include Marlee Matlin, Regis Philbin, Ricki Lake, Dr. Phil McGraw, and Jada Pinkett Smith.