Beginners Guitar Guide
Most people pick up the guitar because there are certain songs they want to learn how to play. By learning the basic major guitar chords you will be able to play a wide range of songs. Probably the first ones that any musician will learn to play will be the C, G, and D. And believe it or not, but these can actually be simplified to be played on only the top 3 strings.
First of all, the simplified C chord can be played simply by placing the index finger on the first fret of the second string and strumming the first 3 strings. Next, there is the G major chord which is played in a similar fashion, but by your third, or ring finger, on the third fret of the first string.
Finally, there is the D chord. This one is more challenging and can be played on one of two different ways. First, you will take your index finger and stretch it against the first 3 strings at the second fret. Now with your middle finger at the third fret of the second string, strum the first 3 strings. This is the easiest way for most beginners, but the more commonly used formation by more experienced players is to put the first finger on the second fret of the third string, the middle finger on the second fret of the first string, and the ring finger on the third fret of the second string.
First of all, the simplified C chord can be played simply by placing the index finger on the first fret of the second string and strumming the first 3 strings. Next, there is the G major chord which is played in a similar fashion, but by your third, or ring finger, on the third fret of the first string.
Finally, there is the D chord. This one is more challenging and can be played on one of two different ways. First, you will take your index finger and stretch it against the first 3 strings at the second fret. Now with your middle finger at the third fret of the second string, strum the first 3 strings. This is the easiest way for most beginners, but the more commonly used formation by more experienced players is to put the first finger on the second fret of the third string, the middle finger on the second fret of the first string, and the ring finger on the third fret of the second string.
Tips And Advice
When learning to play guitar chords for the very first time, you will find that your fingers have a difficult time getting into position and that they will become sore after playing for awhile. Do not let this discourage you however because over time and with practice this will all come naturally. While practicing, try to change the chords quickly while strumming. Try to make each chord successfully before strumming the next chord. This will allow you to learn the different guitar chords quickly so they become second nature to you.
Eventually you will find that you are ready to learn some new chords, such as the A major chord for example. This one is more challenging, and like the D chord it can be played in one of two ways. In a simplified version, you can simply extend your first finger, or your ring finger, across the first 3 strings at the second fret. While this may hurt at first, your finger will get used to it eventually. Make sure that all the strings are firmly pressed down or some muting will occur. A more complicated method is to place your first three fingers over the same frets and strings. So you will be playing the same notes, but using different fingers in order to achieve it.
Eventually you will find that you are ready to learn some new chords, such as the A major chord for example. This one is more challenging, and like the D chord it can be played in one of two ways. In a simplified version, you can simply extend your first finger, or your ring finger, across the first 3 strings at the second fret. While this may hurt at first, your finger will get used to it eventually. Make sure that all the strings are firmly pressed down or some muting will occur. A more complicated method is to place your first three fingers over the same frets and strings. So you will be playing the same notes, but using different fingers in order to achieve it.