Guitar With Rene
Beginner chord

C guitar chord for beginners

Curl the first finger so the open high string can ring.

3 fingersMediumDay 3
Open interactive chord library All beginner chords

Quick answer

C is a medium beginner guitar chord. Practice it by building the shape slowly, checking every string, and then using it in an easy song.

  • Fingers: 3 fingers
  • Course order: Day 3
  • Tip: Curl the first finger so the open high string can ring.

C chord diagram

e|---0---
B|---1---
G|---0---
D|---2---
A|---3---
E|---x---

x means do not play that string. 0 means play the open string.

How to practice C

Build the shape slowly

Place one finger at a time, then strum once and listen for muted strings.

Release and return

Take the hand off, shake out tension, then rebuild the chord without squeezing harder.

Use it in music

Move from the chord into one simple song loop so the shape has a purpose.

Easy songs with C

Wagon WheelG, D, Em, CKnockin' on Heaven's DoorG, D, Am, CStand By MeG, Em, C, DRiptideAm, G, CLeaving on a Jet PlaneG, C, DZombieEm, C, G, DTake Me Home, Country RoadsG, Em, D, CI'm YoursG, D, Em, CPerfectG, Em, C, DWhat's UpG, Am, C

Common questions

Is C a beginner guitar chord?

C is medium for most beginners. Practice it slowly and use songs that give your hand time to change.

What songs use C?

Wagon Wheel, Knockin' on Heaven's Door, Stand By Me, Riptide and more beginner songs use C.