Select a chord and chord type
Chord diagrams are visual representations that show you where to place your fingers on the fretboard. In each diagram, the numbers inside the dots represent your fingers: 1 = index finger, 2 = middle finger, 3 = ring finger, and 4 = pinky. If there's a number to the left of the diagram, it shows the fret number, helping you quickly locate where to position your hand on the neck of the guitar.
There are several types of chords you’ll encounter: major, minor, seventh, diminished, and augmented. Major chords have a bright, full sound and are the foundation of most songs. Minor chords, on the other hand, have a softer, more melancholic tone. Seventh chords add a jazzy feel, while diminished and augmented chords create tension, often used to lead into other chords. Understanding these types will help you make sense of how songs are structured and how to use different chords creatively.
When practicing chords, focus on clarity and accuracy first. Start by pressing each chord slowly, ensuring that each string rings out clearly. Then, work on transitioning between chords smoothly. Begin at a slow tempo, then gradually increase speed as you become comfortable. Consistent practice will improve your chord transitions, making your playing sound more polished and fluid.