The CAGED System
The CAGED System is an acronym for the chord shapes that can be transposed to barre chords (C, A, G, E, and D chords) For example, an E major chord can be moved up 2 frets to play an F# Chord by placing a bar on the second fret and playing an E major chord shape in front of the bar as if it were an open chord. By changing the root of the chord, we can change the sound of the chord. This allows us to play many chords that cannot be played as open chords on the guitar.
Open E major chord. Note the open strings in the chord.
The F# major chord. Note the open strings and shape of the E chord have been moved up two frets.
How to Find Any Chord with the CAGED System
Find the root of the CAGED shape: E and G shapes have their root on the Low E (6th) string. A and C Shapes have their root on the A (5th) string, and D shapes have their roots on the D (4th) String.
Use the root diagrams to find the new root of the transposed chord shape and place the root there to create the chord in the new key.
Adjust the fingering of the voicing to free up your index finger to create the barre.
Barre Chord Example. Note the placement of the index finger and the extension of the fingertip past the fingerboard. Also notice the thumb placement behind the index finger.
CAGED SYSTEM - Finding The Roots
In order to use the CAGED system, we will need to find the correct root for each chord. Use the following fretboard diagrams to find the root for the chord you are looking for. Remember that the E, A, and D shapes will have the root as part of the barre, while the C and G shapes use a fretting finger for the root.
Roots on the E String. Use these roots for the “E” and “G” Shapes in the CAGED System
Roots on the A String. Use these roots for the “A” and “C” Shapes in the CAGED System
Roots on the D String. Use these roots for the “D” Shape in the CAGED System
For example, if you want to play an F# chord using an E Major Shape, find the F# on the 2nd fret of the Low E (6th) string and place the barre on the 2nd fret. Then add the E major shape in front of it to complete the chord.
