The First 5 Chords Every Guitarist Needs to Know

Learning to play the guitar can feel overwhelming at first, but it all starts with mastering a few essential chords. These foundational chords will form the backbone of many popular songs and set you on the path to becoming a confident player. In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the first five chords every guitarist should learn: C, A, G, E, and D. We’ll also provide diagrams to help you visualize and practice these chords.

1. C Major Chord

The C Major chord is a staple in many songs and is one of the most commonly used open chords.

C Major Chord Diagram:

e	B	G	D	A	E
0	1	0	2	3	X

Place your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the A string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D string, and your index finger on the 1st fret of the B string. Strum from the A string down.

2. A Major Chord

The A Major chord is another important chord that’s easy to play and can be found in countless songs.

A Major Chord Diagram:

e	B	G	D	A	E
0	2	2	2	0	X

Place your index, middle, and ring fingers on the 2nd fret of the D, G, and B strings. Strum from the A string down.

3. G Major Chord

The G Major chord is a full-sounding chord that adds richness to your playing. It’s a great chord for both rhythm and lead guitar.

G Major Chord Diagram:

e	B	G	D	A	E
3	3	0	0	2	3

Place your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the E string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the A string, and your pinky on the 3rd fret of the high e string. Strum all strings.

4. E Major Chord

The E Major chord is a powerful and versatile chord that’s used in rock, blues, and pop songs.

E Major Chord Diagram:

e	B	G	D	A	E
0	0	1	2	2	0

Place your index finger on the 1st fret of the G string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the A string, and your ring finger on the 2nd fret of the D string. Strum all six strings.

5. D Major Chord

The D Major chord is a bright-sounding chord that’s common in folk and pop music.

D Major Chord Diagram:

e	B	G	D	A	E
2	3	2	0	X	X

Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the G string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the high e string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the B string. Strum from the D string down.

FAQ: Learning Guitar Chords

1. How long does it take to learn these five chords?

Most beginners can learn these five chords within a week or two with consistent practice. The key is to practice switching between the chords smoothly.

2. Are these chords used in popular songs?

Yes! These five chords are the foundation for countless popular songs across a variety of genres, from rock to folk to pop.

3. How can I practice switching between chords?

Start slowly by practicing switching between two chords, like G to C, and then gradually increase the speed. Once you’re comfortable, practice strumming along to a simple song that uses these chords.

Get Started with These Essential Chords

These five chords—C, A, G, E, and D—are your gateway to playing thousands of songs. Spend time mastering the shapes and transitioning between them, and you’ll soon find yourself playing entire songs with confidence. As you progress, you’ll be able to add more chords to your repertoire, but these foundational chords will always be useful. Happy playing!