Power-chord PATTERN #1: Root on the 6th String

 

This pattern can be moved up and down the neck to create different power chords.

Note: In the pictures below, note that one of the strings is fretted by using the little finger - but some folks don't like to use the pinky...so they hold down both strings with the third finger. You can try both and see what you prefer.

The root note determines the name of the power chord...so your index finger (which is denoted by the number "1") is always fretting the "root note".

Hence, if you know the names of the frets on that low E-string, then all you have to do is move this very same power-chord position all over the neck - and you'll get different chords!

This is the basic power-chord pattern.

Remember not to strike the strings marked with with X's...only strike the strings marked with numbers.

 

If you know the names of the frets, you'll know that the above chord is an F power-chord. Why? Because the root note (the 1-note) is on the first fret of the low E string.

Now what if we shift the very same pattern a little further up the neck?

Let's play the root on the 3rd fret of the low E string - what is that note?

G...therefore it is a G power-chord.

If you don't yet know the names of the notes on the guitar's fretboard, then learn them by going to the "Fretboard" section of this manual now.