Fretboard Diagrams
Learning to Read Fretboard Diagrams
A fretboard diagram is a graphic representation of the guitar fretboard. When a fretboard diagram is used to illustrate a chord fingering, it is called a chord diagram.
Fretboard Diagrams
A fretboard diagram is a graphic representation of the guitar fretboard. When a fretboard diagram is used to illustrate a chord fingering, it is called a chord diagram.
The six vertical lines represent the six strings of the guitar.
The bold horizontal line at the top represents the nut.
The other horizontal lines represent the first four frets. An encircled number indicates the left-hand finger to be used. For example, the 
on this diagram indicates that you should play the fifth string, at the second fret, using your second finger. The 
indicates that you should play the fourth string, at the second fret, using your third finger.
A circle above the nut represents an open string. The circles on this diagram indicate that you should play the remaining strings as open.
Interactive Fretboard
In this self-check activity you will identify the parts of the chord diagram. Drag each part name to its corresponding label on the chord diagram.
Fretboard Activity
In this activity you will build a chord diagram for the E minor chord. Roll your mouse over the "i" below for specific instructions.
