Getting started
Strumming Diagrams
Strum in the direction of the arrows. Practice slowly with a metronome.
How to read a strumming diagram
- The six lines are the strings, with the low E string on top. A strum covers all six.
- The numbers on top are the counts of each measure. "&" is the half-way point between two beats.
- An arrow pointing down is a down strum; an arrow pointing up is an up strum.
- A count with no arrow is a rest for the pick. Keep your hand moving in time and simply miss the strings.
- The letter names the pattern. Every song in the book tells you which letters to use.
Right Hand Patterns 3D
Right Hand Patterns 3B
Right Hand Patterns 3H
Right Hand Patterns 4A
Right Hand Patterns 4B
Right Hand Patterns 4C
Right Hand Patterns 4G
Right Hand Patterns 5C
Right Hand Patterns 5D
Right Hand Patterns 15A
Right Hand Patterns 15F
Right Hand Patterns 16C
Practice tip
Count out loud — "1 & 2 & 3 & 4 &" — and let your hand swing down on the numbers and up on the "&"s, even when you skip a strum. Start with a slow metronome setting and only speed up when the pattern feels easy.