Reading Chord Diagrams. 

As we learn how to play chords, we will use visual depictions of our fretboard called chord diagrams to show us where to place our hands on the frets to play each chord. This allows us to memorize the fingerings rather than the notes of each chord to start.  

Basic Chord Diagrams

Each chord diagram has six vertical lines that represent the strings of the guitar. The lowest 6th string is represented by the line on the far left of the diagram, while the highest 1st string is on the right.

The three horizontal lines represent the frets of the guitar. Numbers can be placed on the right of a fret to indicate a change in the fret number, otherwise, it is assumed that the diagram represents the first three frets of the guitar.  

Adding Fingering Markers 

When we add markers on the lines, this indicates a note that is played as part of the chord. In this diagram, a note is marked on the 2nd fret of the 4th string.

The number above the string will indicate the left-hand finger that is to play that note on the fretboard

Open and Muted Strings 

An “X” marking above a string indicates that this string is not part of the chord and is not to be played or strummed. A “0” marking above a string indicates that this is an open string and should be played alongside any fretted notes of the chord.

Open strings are just as important as fretted notes when playing chords, so extra care must be taken to make sure they are not omitted from each chord.