New to guitar? Start here

Learn Your First Chords. Play Your First Song.

A step-by-step path for new and left-handed players: clear chord charts, the best free lessons, and practice routines that tell you what to learn next.

Start Level 1
Browse All Chords

Left-handed charts

G
C

Open position, shown for left-handed players

Your learning path

Four Levels From First Chord to Barre Chords

Finish one level, then move on. Each level links to the chords, lessons and practice songs you need, so you never have to wonder what to learn next.

  1. Level 1
  2. Level 2
  3. Level 3
  4. Level 4

Start here

Level 1: Open Chords and Strumming

Learn how to read a chord diagram, then your first major and minor chords and a steady down-up strum.

Start Lesson

Next

Level 2: Chord Changes and First Songs

Move between chords without stopping, add C and G, and play along with your first practice songs.

Later

Level 3: Barre Chords and Inversions

Unlock every key with barre shapes, then smooth out your changes with slash chords.

Later

Level 4: 7th Chords and Beyond

Add color to your playing with dominant 7th chords and the sounds they give your songs.

Chord Library

Need a chord right now? Pick a type, pick a letter, and see the diagram.

MajorMinor7thBarreInversions
ABCDEFG

Practice Resources

Hand-picked lessons and songs that match what you are learning right now.

Video lesson

Justin Guitar: How to Play the A Chord

Two fingerings for A major. The 3-1-2 version makes it easier to switch to D and E.

Watch the lesson

Practice song

For What It’s Worth, tabs and video

A first song to practice your A, D and E chords, taught by Lauren Bateman.

Get the tabs

Video lesson

Fender Play: How to Play G Minor

A clear walkthrough of the Gm chord for when you are ready for barre shapes.

Watch the lesson

Stuck on a Chord Change?

Short, practical tips on posture, finger placement and practice routines that help new players improve faster.

Read the Tips

From the Blog

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