Guitar

The guitar produces sound when plucked or strummed strings vibrate over a hollow or solid body and resonate through an soundhole or pickup. Fret the neck with the left hand (for right-handed players) to shorten string length and change pitch. Standard tuning is E–A–D–G–B–E from low to high. Chords combine several fretted notes; strumming patterns provide rhythm. Acoustic guitars amplify naturally; electrics need an amp. Tabs and chord charts show where to place fingers without reading full notation.^[1][2]

Get a playable instrument set up at a shop so action (string height) is comfortable. Learn to tune with a clip-on tuner or app. Start with two or three open chords—G, C, D, or E minor—and slow strums. Practice switching chords for five minutes daily rather than one long session. Use a metronome at slow tempos. Follow one beginner song you like to stay motivated. Consider a few lessons for posture and hand position early on.^[1]