How to hold a guitar and a guitar pick

You may be thinking, “Do I really need a lesson on holding a guitar?” Well yes, as it turns out, because there’s a best way to do it. And it’s the same with how you hold your pick.  

Get your posture, grip and hand position sorted in the early stages of your guitar-playing journey and you’ll save a lifetime of trying to undo bad technical habits mis-learnt early on. Let’s get it right from the start.

• How to play guitar chords

Sitting

If you’re right-handed, the guitar rests on your right leg. Find a chair where you can have both feet flat on the floor. And, sitting or standing, if you can keep a straight back and shoulders level, your spine will thank you.

Fretting finger position

You’ll need to use your fingertips for accuracy. For most playing contexts, your thumb should be on the centre of the back of the neck, pointing either vertically, or slightly towards the headstock.

Standing

Wear the guitar high enough that you can place your fingers on any string at any fret. Wearing it low might help you channel your rock ’n’ roll mojo, but it’s harder to reach around the neck – so you won’t play as well.

Picking – Trigger Grip

Your pick rests on side of your index finger, with your thumb on top.

Picking – Pad Grip

The pick rests between your thumb and the flat pad of your index finger.

Picking – Middle Finger Grip

Your pick rests between the pad of your middle finger and thumb. Optionally, your index finger can be included for support.

• 10 of the best guitars for kids: electric and acoustic options for small hands
• The best acoustic guitars for beginners: easy strummers for new players
• Plug in and play with the best beginner electric guitars
• Take your first steps with the best beginner guitar amps
• Beginner guitar gear essentials and guitar accessories