Fretboard Visualization 101: How to Memorize the Guitar Neck

16/10/2016

For guitar players, a working knowledge of the fretboard is the simplest thing that will streamline and accelerate the learning process. With some basic insight and the application of a few key techniques, anyone can begin to visualize notes across the entire fretboard quickly and easily. In this article, we discuss the first step in fretboard memorization: building a framework. This begins with learning some key reference points.

Vertical Anchor Points

The previous article looked at the horizontal sequence of notes on the guitar neck. In contrast, this post will focus on some key vertical sequences. When locating notes on the fretboard, we usually resort to counting through the musical alphabet from each open string. Why? Because this is the reference point we’re most familiar with. While this method may be helpful when playing around the open position, it becomes less practical the further we move up the fretboard.

There’s a simple solution to this problem: We need to establish some alternate reference points. The open strings are a helpful anchor point because they represent a series of notes across all six strings that don’t contain sharps or flats. However, there are also a few other places this occurs on the guitar neck. Besides the open position, we can see that there are vertical rows of natural notes across the 5th and 10th frets as well. Because these rows are so evenly spaced on the guitar neck, it’s very convenient for the purpose of fretboard memorization. Visualizing multiple reference points is more consistent with how we’ll actually use the fretboard when playing:

Tip: Remember, the fretboard repeats itself, so these exact sequences can also be found on the 12th, 17th, and 22nd frets.

Fretboard Acronyms

To reiterate, the open strings are the main reference point most guitar players are familiar with. The goal here is to replicate this familiarity using both the 5th and 10th frets. In doing so, we create a basic three-tier framework that’s more easily integrated into actual playing situations. Let’s take a closer look at each position in more detail:

First, we know the open strings: E - A - D - G - B - E
Next, across the 5th fret we have: A - D - G - C - E - A
Finally, from the 10th fret we have: D - G - C - F - A - D

Although it isn’t particularly difficult to memorize a few six-letter sequences, you may find the use of acronyms helpful. While coming up with little sayings of your own is a beneficial memorization exercise, here are a few suggestions to get you started:

Effort And Determination Go Before Excellence
Any Diligent Guitarist Can Easily Achieve
Don’t Get Caught Fretting All Day

Tip: Because a key concept throughout this book is developing visual connections on the fretboard, as mentioned earlier, practicing visualization both with and without the guitar is encouraged. The ability to picture notes in our minds when we’re not playing will certainly benefit us when we are playing.

Want to Lean More?

Learn Your Fretboard offers a fresh and straightforward approach to memorizing the guitar neck. This handbook outlines a definitive system for fretboard visualization that will inspire breakthroughs for guitar players of all skill levels. Regardless of whether you’ve tried and failed before, this is the perfect companion for any guitarist wanting to develop a command of the fretboard in real playing situations!

For more information or to get your copy, find it online at: