How to tune a guitar
Standard guitar tuning is E, A, D, G, B, e from the thickest string to the thinnest.
Taught by Rene Free Beginner firstQuick answer
Tune a guitar by checking each open string from thickest to thinnest: E, A, D, G, B, e. Turn the tuning peg slowly until the tuner shows the correct note.
- Thickest string: E
- Thinnest string: e
- Turn pegs gently and recheck
Tuning comes before chords
If the guitar is out of tune, even correct fingers will sound wrong. Tune at the start of every session.
E string
Pick the string, let it ring, and adjust until the tuner matches this note.
A string
Pick the string, let it ring, and adjust until the tuner matches this note.
D string
Pick the string, let it ring, and adjust until the tuner matches this note.
G string
Pick the string, let it ring, and adjust until the tuner matches this note.
B string
Pick the string, let it ring, and adjust until the tuner matches this note.
e string
Pick the string, let it ring, and adjust until the tuner matches this note.
Step by step
- 1
Start with the thickest string
Tune the low E string first.
- 2
Move one string at a time
Tune A, D, G, B, then high e.
- 3
Pick and wait
Let the note settle before turning the peg again.
- 4
Recheck all strings
Changing one string can slightly move the others.
Small turns are safer
Big fast turns overshoot the note and make beginners feel lost. Move slowly and listen.
Useful next pages
Common questions
What are the guitar string notes?
Standard tuning from thickest to thinnest is E, A, D, G, B, e.
Should a beginner tune every time?
Yes. Tune at the start of every practice session.