Guitar Learning Tips

Tip 1: Use YouTube and Songsterr

  • YouTube and Songsterr are a comprehensive and free teaching duo.

  • Search a YouTube video of the song to get a feel for the rhythm and melody.

  • Use YouTube tutorials (Gareth Evans, Paul Davids, and Marty Music are recommended).

  • If tutorials aren't available, use tabs from Songsterr.

  • Always cross-reference tabs with performance videos to check for accuracy and rhythm.

Tip 2: Essential Gear

  • You don't need a lot of gear to start.

  • Use free guitar tuning apps instead of tuners (Guitar Tuna).

  • Acoustic guitar is sufficient initially; no need for an electric guitar.

  • Start with fingerstyle to develop dexterity.

  • Capos can be made using rubber bands and a pencil.

Tip 3: Just Play Something

  • Pay attention to how advanced guitarists hold their instruments to avoid bad habits.

  • There's no right order to learn; just start playing.

  • Focus on good technique, but prioritize time with the guitar.

Tip 4: Schedule and Goals to Overcome the Hump

  • Many quit during the "hump" phase, where progress feels slow.

  • Stick to a schedule.

  • Set SMART goals which are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound.

Tip 5: Make It Fun

  • Making guitar playing fun is the most important thing to avoid quitting.

  • Prioritize learning songs/riffs you enjoy.

  • Keep your guitar visible to encourage practice.

  • Don't be too hard on yourself with schedules and goals; avoid burnout.

  • Consider buying a looper pedal to make playing more fun as you advance.

To learn guitar effectively, use YouTube and Songsterr for comprehensive, free teaching. Find YouTube videos of songs to grasp rhythm and melody, and use tutorials from channels like Gareth Evans, Paul Davids, and Marty Music. If tutorials aren't available, use tabs from Songsterr, always cross-referencing with performance videos. For essential gear, you don't need much to start; use free guitar tuning apps like Guitar Tuna instead of tuners. An acoustic guitar is sufficient initially, and starting with fingerstyle helps develop dexterity. A capo can even be improvised using rubber bands and a pencil.

Focus on playing something you enjoy. Pay attention to how advanced guitarists hold their instruments to avoid bad habits, but remember there's no right order to learn—just start playing. Prioritize good technique while still dedicating time to the guitar. To overcome the common “hump” phase where progress feels slow, stick to a schedule and set SMART goals: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound.

Finally, make the process fun to avoid quitting. Prioritize learning songs and riffs you enjoy, keep your guitar visible to encourage practice, and avoid being too hard on yourself with schedules and goals to prevent burnout. As you advance, consider buying a looper pedal to enhance your enjoyment.