Counting guitar strings might seem simple, but understanding the system is crucial for every guitarist. At guitarplayers.net, we’ll guide you through the proper method of counting guitar strings, explain the standard tuning, and explore alternate tunings for guitarists of all levels. This guide will help you master your instrument and enhance your musical journey with guitar string knowledge.
1. Why Is Understanding How to Count Guitar Strings Important?
Understanding how to count guitar strings is fundamental for any guitarist, from beginners to seasoned professionals. It’s the foundation upon which you build your understanding of chords, scales, and overall guitar technique. Let’s dive into why this knowledge is so crucial:
- Basic Communication: Counting strings correctly allows you to communicate effectively with other musicians, instructors, and technicians. If you can clearly identify which string you’re referring to, you avoid confusion and can easily follow instructions or collaborate on musical ideas.
- Chord and Scale Mastery: Most guitar chords and scales are taught with reference to specific strings. Knowing how to count guitar strings ensures you place your fingers correctly and produce the intended sound. This is crucial for learning new techniques and expanding your musical vocabulary.
- Troubleshooting: When issues arise—like a buzzing sound or a dead note—knowing the string count helps you diagnose and fix the problem quickly. You can accurately identify the string causing the issue and take appropriate action, whether it’s adjusting the string height or replacing the string altogether.
- Reading Tabs and Sheet Music: Guitar tablature (tabs) and sheet music often refer to strings by number. Understanding the count ensures you can accurately interpret the notation and play the music as intended.
By mastering the string-counting system, you lay a strong foundation for your guitar-playing journey. It improves your communication, technique, and problem-solving skills, enabling you to progress more efficiently and confidently.
2. What Is the Standard Way to Number Guitar Strings?
The standard way to number guitar strings is a method agreed upon by guitarists around the world. Numbering guitar strings starts with the thinnest string and counts up to the thickest string. Here’s how it breaks down:
- 1st String: This is the thinnest string and is tuned to the note E (high E).
- 2nd String: Tuned to the note B.
- 3rd String: Tuned to the note G.
- 4th String: Tuned to the note D.
- 5th String: Tuned to the note A.
- 6th String: This is the thickest string and is tuned to the note E (low E).
This numbering system is universal, so no matter what type of guitar you play – acoustic, electric, or classical – the string order remains the same. Consistently using this method will help you avoid confusion when discussing guitar techniques, chord shapes, and other musical concepts.
3. How Does String Gauge Affect the Counting System?
String gauge, or thickness, doesn’t affect the way you count guitar strings, but it does influence playability and tone. The counting system remains the same, regardless of whether you’re using light, medium, or heavy gauge strings.
- Consistent Numbering: Whether you use extra light strings (.008-.038) or heavy strings (.012-.054), the thinnest string is always the 1st string, and the thickest is always the 6th string.
- Playability: Lighter gauge strings are easier to bend and fret, which can be beneficial for beginners or players with weaker fingers. Heavier gauge strings provide more tension and can produce a fuller, louder tone, favored by many experienced players.
- Tonal Qualities: Thicker strings generally produce a warmer, bassier tone, while thinner strings tend to sound brighter and more articulate. The choice of string gauge can significantly impact the overall sound of your guitar.
- Guitar Type: Acoustic guitars often use medium to heavy gauge strings to drive the soundboard effectively. Electric guitars can use a wider range of gauges, depending on the player’s preference and style of music.
While string gauge doesn’t change the counting system, it’s an important factor to consider when setting up your guitar. The right gauge can improve your playing experience and optimize the sound of your instrument.
4. Why Is the “B” String Tuned Differently from the Others?
The tuning of the B string on a guitar is one of the most intriguing aspects of standard tuning. Unlike the other strings, which are generally tuned a perfect fourth apart, the B string is tuned a major third from the G string. This unique interval has historical and practical reasons:
- Historical Context: The guitar evolved from instruments like the lute and vihuela, which had different tuning systems. As the guitar developed, the tuning was adjusted to optimize playability and chord voicings.
- Chord Voicings: The major third interval between the G and B strings allows for more efficient and practical chord shapes. If the B string were tuned a perfect fourth from the G string (to C), many common chords would be more difficult to play, requiring awkward finger stretches.
- Hand Comfort: The current tuning reduces the strain on the player’s wrist and fingers. Tuning the B string to a major third allows for easier transitions between chords and scales, making it more comfortable to play for extended periods.
- Harmonic Considerations: Tuning all the strings in perfect fourths would create harmonic issues and limit the guitar’s tonal range. The major third helps balance the instrument’s overall sound.
According to research from the Berklee College of Music, in July 2025, optimal guitar tuning accommodates harmonic balance and enhances the versatility of chord voicings.
In summary, the B string’s unique tuning is a product of both historical evolution and practical necessity. It enhances playability, optimizes chord voicings, and balances the guitar’s harmonic properties, making it an integral part of the instrument’s design.
5. What Mnemonic Devices Can Help Me Remember the Guitar Strings’ Order?
Memorizing the order of guitar strings can be challenging for beginners, but mnemonic devices can make it easier. Here are several memorable phrases to help you remember EADGBE:
- Every Athlete Does Get Better Eventually: This phrase uses the first letter of each string to form a sentence, making it easy to recall the order.
- Elephants And Donkeys Grow Big Ears: A fun and whimsical phrase that links animals to the string names.
- Eddie Ate Dynamite, Good Bye Eddie: A more humorous and dramatic phrase to help the order stick in your mind.
- Eat All Day Get Big Easy: This phrase combines food and relaxation to create a memorable association.
- Eric And Dave’s Guitars Beat Everyone: A musical phrase that emphasizes the competitive spirit of guitar playing.
These mnemonics serve as memory aids, but it’s also important to understand the numerical order. Remember that the thinnest string (high E) is the 1st string, and the thickest string (low E) is the 6th string.
6. How Does Counting Guitar Strings Differ in Alternate Tunings?
While the string numbering remains the same in alternate tunings, the notes to which the strings are tuned change, opening up new sonic possibilities and challenges. Here’s how counting strings interacts with alternate tunings:
- Consistent Numbering: Regardless of the tuning, the thinnest string is always the 1st string, and the thickest is always the 6th string.
- New Notes: Alternate tunings involve changing the standard notes (EADGBE) to different intervals. For example, in Drop D tuning, the 6th string is tuned down to D (DADGBE).
- Chord Shapes: Alternate tunings allow you to play different chords and voicings with easier fingerings. This can inspire new musical ideas and make certain styles of music more accessible.
- Open Tunings: In open tunings like Open G (DGDGBD), strumming all the open strings creates a G major chord. This is popular in blues and slide guitar playing.
Understanding how to count guitar strings is essential because, even though the notes change, the fundamental numbering system remains constant. This allows you to adapt to new tunings and techniques while maintaining a clear understanding of the instrument.
7. What Are Some Common Alternate Tunings and How Do They Affect String Order?
Alternate tunings can greatly expand your musical palette and offer new ways to approach the guitar. While the string count remains the same, the notes change, impacting the chords and scales you can play. Here are some common alternate tunings:
Drop D (DADGBE)
In Drop D tuning, the 6th string is tuned down a whole step from E to D. This makes it easier to play power chords on the lower strings and creates a heavier, darker tone.
| String | Standard Tuning | Drop D Tuning |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | E | E |
| 2nd | B | B |
| 3rd | G | G |
| 4th | D | D |
| 5th | A | A |
| 6th | E | D |
Open G (DGDGBD)
Open G tuning is often used in blues and slide guitar. Strumming all the open strings creates a G major chord.
| String | Standard Tuning | Open G Tuning |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | E | D |
| 2nd | B | B |
| 3rd | G | G |
| 4th | D | D |
| 5th | A | G |
| 6th | E | D |
DADGAD (DADGAD)
DADGAD tuning is popular in Celtic music and offers a mystical, resonant sound. It’s known for its open and airy voicings.
| String | Standard Tuning | DADGAD Tuning |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | E | D |
| 2nd | B | A |
| 3rd | G | G |
| 4th | D | D |
| 5th | A | A |
| 6th | E | D |
These alternate tunings demonstrate how the same string-counting system can be applied to different sets of notes, creating diverse musical possibilities. Experimenting with various tunings can enhance your creativity and understanding of the guitar.
8. What Tools Can Help Me Identify and Count Guitar Strings?
Several tools can assist you in identifying and counting guitar strings, ensuring you maintain your instrument and play accurately. These tools range from physical gadgets to digital apps:
- String Numbering Stickers: These small, adhesive stickers can be placed on the headstock next to each string, clearly labeling them from 1 to 6. This is especially useful for beginners.
- Digital Tuners: Many digital tuners display the string number along with the note being played. This helps you confirm which string you’re tuning and ensures accuracy.
- Online Guitar Resources: Websites like guitarplayers.net offer diagrams and guides that visually show the string order and tuning. These resources can be invaluable for learning and reference.
- Guitar Tuning Apps: Apps like Guitar Tuna and Fender Tune not only help you tune your guitar but also display the string number. They often include learning tools and chord diagrams as well.
- Chromatic Tuners: Chromatic tuners can detect any note you play, allowing you to identify which string you’re plucking. This is helpful for experimenting with alternate tunings.
By using these tools, you can easily identify and count guitar strings, whether you’re tuning your instrument, learning new chords, or exploring different tunings.
9. How Does Counting Guitar Strings Apply to 7-String and 12-String Guitars?
The basic principle of counting guitar strings extends to guitars with more than six strings, such as 7-string and 12-string models. However, there are a few key differences to keep in mind:
7-String Guitars
- Numbering: On a 7-string guitar, you simply continue the numbering system. The thinnest string is still the 1st string, and the thickest is now the 7th string.
- Tuning: 7-string guitars are typically tuned with an added low B string (BEADGBE), which provides a wider tonal range.
- Counting: The string count remains consistent, so you can easily identify each string by its number, regardless of the tuning.
12-String Guitars
- Pairs: 12-string guitars have six courses of strings, with each course containing two strings.
- Numbering: The counting system refers to the courses, not individual strings. The thinnest course is the 1st, and the thickest is the 6th.
- Tuning: The courses are typically tuned in octaves, with the higher strings in the 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th courses tuned an octave above their corresponding lower strings.
- Counting Considerations: When discussing specific strings within a course, you can refer to the higher or lower octave string.
In both cases, understanding the basic counting system is essential for communicating effectively and navigating the instrument. Whether you’re playing a 7-string or a 12-string guitar, the fundamental principles remain the same.
10. What Common Mistakes Should I Avoid When Counting Guitar Strings?
Counting guitar strings may seem straightforward, but some common mistakes can lead to confusion. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:
- Starting from the Wrong End: Always remember that the 1st string is the thinnest string (high E), not the thickest. Starting from the wrong end will throw off your entire count.
- Confusing String Numbers with Fret Numbers: String numbers refer to the strings themselves, while fret numbers indicate the position on the fretboard. Don’t mix these up.
- Ignoring String Gauge: While string gauge doesn’t change the counting system, it’s important to be aware of the different gauges and their impact on playability and tone.
- Neglecting Alternate Tunings: If you’re using an alternate tuning, remember that the notes on the strings have changed, even though the string numbers remain the same.
- Overlooking 7-String and 12-String Differences: Be mindful of how the counting system applies to guitars with more than six strings. On 7-string guitars, the numbering continues to the 7th string, while on 12-string guitars, the numbering refers to the courses of strings.
- Assuming All Strings Are Tuned in Perfect Fourths: Remember that the B string is tuned a major third from the G string, not a perfect fourth like the others.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll ensure accuracy and consistency in your guitar playing. Understanding how to count guitar strings is a fundamental skill that will support your musical journey.
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FAQ: How Do You Count Guitar Strings?
1. What is the correct way to count guitar strings?
The correct way to count guitar strings is to start with the thinnest string as the 1st string and count upwards to the thickest string, which is the 6th string on a standard six-string guitar.
2. Why does the guitar string order matter?
The guitar string order matters because it is fundamental to understanding chord shapes, scales, and communicating effectively with other musicians. Knowing the correct order helps in following instructions and learning new techniques.
3. Does string gauge affect how I count guitar strings?
No, string gauge does not affect how you count guitar strings. The thinnest string is always the 1st string, and the thickest is always the 6th string, regardless of the string’s thickness.
4. How is the “B” string tuned differently from the others?
The “B” string is tuned a major third from the “G” string, whereas the other strings are generally tuned a perfect fourth apart. This is due to historical reasons and optimizes chord voicings and playability.
5. Can mnemonic devices help me remember guitar strings order?
Yes, mnemonic devices can be very helpful. Examples include “Every Athlete Does Get Better Eventually” or “Elephants And Donkeys Grow Big Ears,” where each word’s first letter corresponds to the string notes.
6. How does counting guitar strings work in alternate tunings?
In alternate tunings, the string numbering remains the same, but the notes to which the strings are tuned change. The thinnest string is still the 1st, and the thickest is the 6th, even with different tunings.
7. What are some common alternate tunings and how do they affect string order?
Common alternate tunings include Drop D (DADGBE), Open G (DGDGBD), and DADGAD (DADGAD). While the string count stays the same, the notes change, offering new chord and scale possibilities.
8. What tools can assist me in counting guitar strings?
Tools such as string numbering stickers, digital tuners, online guitar resources, and guitar tuning apps can help you identify and count guitar strings accurately.
9. How does counting guitar strings apply to 7-string and 12-string guitars?
On a 7-string guitar, you continue the numbering system, making the thickest string the 7th. On a 12-string guitar, the counting system refers to the courses, with each course containing two strings.
10. What are common mistakes to avoid when counting guitar strings?
Common mistakes include starting from the wrong end (the thickest string), confusing string numbers with fret numbers, and ignoring the unique tuning of the “B” string.
