So you’ve picked up a guitar, and you’re eager to get into it. One of the first skills you’ll need in order to start playing is learning the name of your guitar strings.
Remembering string names can be tedious. However, knowing some small tips and tricks can help make this task much simpler.
Learning string names is fundamental to learning basic theory, reading TAB, and playing chords. In this article, we will be discussing various methods that can help you on your guitar playing journey. These include the use of mnemonics, practice exercises, as well as identifying the right string gauge for your stage of learning.
Let's get into it.
All guitars have standard tunings. The guitar string name refers to the note that is played when the string is plucked ‘open’ or without putting your finger on the fret.
Although these notes can be changed with tuning, the standard guitar string names, starting from thickest to thinnest, are:
E, A, D, G, B, E
The thickest string, or the E string, is an octave below the skinniest string, also known as the high E. The other strings play notes that are between both the high and low notes.
Mnemonic devices are one of the most common learning aids that beginner guitarists use to learn guitar string names. Commonly used mnemonics are rhymes or little sayings that have each starting letter representing a guitar string.
Here are some popular mnemonics for remembering guitar strings:
From thickest to thinnest (E-A-D-G-B-e)
From thinnest to thickest (e-B-G-D-A-E)
Some of the best mnemonics are ones that you create yourself. This trick will make it easier to remember.
Once you use the mnemonic a few times, it will become second nature and allow you to keep practicing until you’ve mastered the names.
Visual aids and diagrams are effective ways to memorize guitar string names.
There are a couple of effective ways to do this.
One, is by using small colored stickers and sticking them to your fretboard with the string names on them. This can help you quickly look down at the fretboard and know which string to play.
Another way to learn is to print out diagrams with the string names on them, and test yourself on them.
Once you have an idea of the string names, test yourself by covering the letters and naming the string. This will help with speed and recognition.
Some great resources include:
The most effective way to commit string names to long term memory is to regularly test yourself on the names. Although this takes a little dedication, active recall is by far the best way to memorize the string names and begin learning some new pieces of music.
String naming drills, where you practice recalling the string names is one of the easiest ways to do this. There are some simple ways to do this, including:
Once you have this nailed, try some beginner scales, and say the notes out loud as you play them. This will help you understand the guitar and how the notes work together, whilst cementing the guitar string names.
Unfortunately, there is no quick, easy way to learn these things, it just takes some time and practice.
A great way to associate guitar string names with action is to slowly pluck each string, whilst naming it.
This will help you to associate the sound of the string with the string name/ note, and give you a head start when the time comes to understanding more complex theory and playing music by ear.
Another great skill to develop is using the right fingers to play the right string. In general, you should play:
Sticking to this rule when first playing will help you commit the strings to muscle memory.
When it comes to learning the string names, practicing playing the strings will help you to memorize them quickly. However, when you start to learn, it is important that you have the right string gauge and materials for your experience.
Lighter gauge strings are ‘softer’ on your fingers and are great for players who have yet to develop finger toughness and strength. Opt for 10-47 or 11-52 gauge strings.
Alternatively, electric guitars use lighter gauges, and are easier for beginners. However, learning on acoustic will make the later switch to electric easier. Because of this, it is often recommended to start on an acoustic guitar.
When it comes to understanding guitar theory, it is important to realize that the string names refer to the notes that are played when the string is plucked ‘open’, without any fingers on the fret and with standard tuning.
However, there are countless different ways to tune your guitar.
For example, the Drop D tuning is a popular alternative tuning method and is when the low E string is tuned down a whole step to D.
Understanding alternative tunings and comparing it to standard tunings can help you to appreciate the diversity of your guitar and identify different notes.
One of the earliest skills to master when it comes to learning guitar are guitar string names. Whilst this task can be a little tedious, it is a small skill that, when mastered, will help you be able to play a wide range of music.
Identifying guitar strings will also help you understand instructions from guitar teachers and allow you to converse with people about guitar pieces in a universal manner.
Once you have nailed guitar string names, you will be able to start playing some basic chords, which opens up the opportunity to learn new songs. It also allows you to learn and understand scales, play TAB, and learn more advanced music theory.
Learning guitar is not always easy, but it is for everyone. If you are ready to put in a little bit of time, you will see progress quickly. Playing guitar is a great social skill to have, it allows you to express creativity, work your brain differently than usual and is a great outlet for all of life’s stresses.
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