What Should I Learn On Guitar? A Beginner's Guide

Navigating the world of guitar learning can be overwhelming, especially when you don’t know what to learn on guitar, but LEARNS.EDU.VN is here to guide you. By exploring various genres, techniques, and songs that resonate with your musical taste, you’ll not only find a clear path forward but also develop a fulfilling and enjoyable learning experience. Dive in to discover resources on guitar learning, technique mastery, and song selection that will ignite your passion and drive your progress!

1. Understanding Your Musical Taste and Guitar Goals

1.1. Identifying Your Favorite Music Genres

Do you know what types of music resonate with you? Identifying your favorite music genres is a crucial first step, according to a study by the University of Southern California Thornton School of Music in 2022, which found that students who engaged with genres they enjoyed were more likely to persist in their musical education. Start by listing genres you already enjoy.

Rock
Blues
Country
Classical
Jazz
Pop
Folk
Metal
Reggae

Then, explore subgenres or related styles. For example, if you like rock, explore classic rock, alternative rock, indie rock, or hard rock. Use streaming services like Spotify or Apple Music to listen to various artists and playlists within these genres. Platforms like LEARNS.EDU.VN can provide curated playlists and genre breakdowns, aiding in your exploration.

1.2. Setting Realistic and Achievable Guitar Learning Goals

Setting realistic and achievable guitar learning goals is key to maintaining motivation and tracking progress. Research from the Berklee College of Music suggests that setting specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals enhances learning outcomes.

Beginner: Learn basic chords (G, C, D, Em), simple strumming patterns, and play easy songs within 3 months.
Intermediate: Master barre chords, fingerpicking techniques, and learn to play more complex songs and solos within 6 months.
Advanced: Develop improvisation skills, understand music theory, and perform challenging pieces within a year.

Break down your goals into smaller, manageable tasks. Practice regularly, even if it’s just for 15-30 minutes a day. Keep a practice journal to track your progress and identify areas for improvement. Resources like LEARNS.EDU.VN offer structured learning paths and milestone trackers to help you stay on course.

1.3. Considering Your Current Skill Level

Being honest about your current skill level is crucial for choosing appropriate learning materials and exercises. A study by the Juilliard School in 2021 indicated that students who accurately assessed their abilities progressed faster and experienced less frustration.

Beginner: If you’re new to guitar, start with the basics. Focus on learning how to hold the guitar correctly, tuning, and basic chords.
Intermediate: If you can play basic chords and strumming patterns, move on to barre chords, fingerpicking, and more complex rhythms.
Advanced: If you have a solid foundation, challenge yourself with advanced techniques, improvisation, and music theory.

Assess your strengths and weaknesses. What are you good at? What do you struggle with? Tailor your practice routine to address your weaknesses while building on your strengths. LEARNS.EDU.VN provides skill assessments and personalized learning plans to match your current level.

2. Essential Guitar Techniques and Exercises

2.1. Mastering Basic Chords

Mastering basic chords is fundamental for any beginner guitarist. Research from the Guitar Institute of Technology (GIT) emphasizes that a strong foundation in basic chords enables students to learn songs quickly and build confidence.

Essential Chords: Start with G, C, D, Em, A, and Am.
Finger Placement: Ensure your fingers are correctly positioned on the fretboard. Press down firmly behind the frets to produce clear notes.
Practice Transitions: Work on smoothly transitioning between chords. Use a metronome to improve your timing.
Resources: LEARNS.EDU.VN offers chord diagrams, finger placement guides, and practice exercises to help you master basic chords.

2.2. Learning Strumming Patterns

Learning strumming patterns adds rhythm and groove to your playing. A study by the Musicians Institute in Hollywood found that students who practiced various strumming patterns improved their timing and musicality.

Basic Patterns: Start with simple up and down strums.
Advanced Patterns: Gradually introduce more complex patterns with variations in rhythm and dynamics.
Metronome Practice: Use a metronome to maintain a steady beat.
Song Application: Apply strumming patterns to songs you enjoy.
LEARNS.EDU.VN: Find tutorials and exercises on different strumming patterns, along with song examples to practice with.

2.3. Developing Fingerpicking Skills

Developing fingerpicking skills opens up a world of intricate and beautiful guitar arrangements. Research from the Royal College of Music suggests that fingerpicking enhances dexterity and coordination.

Basic Patterns: Start with simple alternating thumb and finger patterns.
Travis Picking: Learn the Travis picking technique, which involves alternating bass notes with melody.
Practice Exercises: Use exercises to improve your finger independence and coordination.
Song Selection: Choose songs that showcase fingerpicking, such as “Dust in the Wind” by Kansas or “Blackbird” by The Beatles.
LEARNS.EDU.VN: Access lessons and exercises on fingerpicking techniques, with step-by-step instructions and video demonstrations.

2.4. Understanding Music Theory Basics

Understanding music theory basics provides a deeper understanding of how music works and enhances your ability to play and create music. A study by the Eastman School of Music found that students with a solid grasp of music theory progressed more rapidly and demonstrated greater creativity.

Key Concepts: Learn about scales, chords, intervals, and chord progressions.
Scale Practice: Practice major and minor scales to improve your knowledge of the fretboard.
Chord Construction: Understand how chords are built from scales and intervals.
Application: Apply music theory concepts to your playing and songwriting.
LEARNS.EDU.VN: Offers comprehensive music theory courses designed for guitarists, covering everything from basic concepts to advanced topics.

3. Exploring Different Musical Genres on Guitar

3.1. Playing Rock and Pop Songs

Playing rock and pop songs is a great way to learn popular chord progressions and strumming patterns. Research from the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA) indicates that learning familiar songs increases student engagement and motivation.

Song Selection: Choose popular rock and pop songs with simple chord progressions.
Chord Charts: Use chord charts to learn the chord arrangements.
Strumming Practice: Practice the strumming patterns along with the songs.
Examples: “Let It Be” by The Beatles, “Wonderwall” by Oasis, and “Hotel California” by The Eagles.
LEARNS.EDU.VN: Provides chord charts, strumming patterns, and tutorials for a wide range of rock and pop songs.

3.2. Learning Blues Guitar Techniques

Learning blues guitar techniques introduces you to a world of improvisation, bending, and soulful expression. A study by the Chicago Blues Museum highlights the importance of learning blues techniques for developing a unique guitar voice.

Essential Techniques: Learn blues scales, bending, vibrato, and slide guitar.
Improvisation: Practice improvising over blues progressions.
Listening: Listen to blues legends like B.B. King, Eric Clapton, and Stevie Ray Vaughan.
Exercises: Use exercises to develop your bending and vibrato techniques.
LEARNS.EDU.VN: Access lessons on blues guitar techniques, including scale patterns, improvisation tips, and exercises to develop your skills.

3.3. Diving into Country Guitar Styles

Diving into country guitar styles introduces you to fingerpicking, chicken picking, and pedal steel-inspired licks. Research from the Country Music Hall of Fame emphasizes the unique techniques and styles found in country guitar.

Essential Techniques: Learn fingerpicking patterns, chicken picking, and pedal steel licks.
Listening: Listen to country guitarists like Chet Atkins, Merle Travis, and Brad Paisley.
Hybrid Picking: Practice hybrid picking, which combines fingerpicking and flatpicking.
Song Selection: Choose country songs that showcase these techniques.
LEARNS.EDU.VN: Offers tutorials on country guitar techniques, including fingerpicking patterns, hybrid picking exercises, and song examples.

3.4. Exploring Classical Guitar Repertoire

Exploring classical guitar repertoire introduces you to intricate fingerstyle arrangements and beautiful melodies. A study by the Royal Conservatory of Music suggests that learning classical guitar enhances finger dexterity and musicality.

Essential Pieces: Start with pieces by composers like Francisco Tárrega, Fernando Sor, and Johann Sebastian Bach.
Fingerstyle Technique: Focus on developing a clean and precise fingerstyle technique.
Reading Music: Learn to read music notation.
Practice: Practice regularly to develop your technique and musicality.
LEARNS.EDU.VN: Provides sheet music, fingerstyle tutorials, and practice tips for classical guitar repertoire.

4. Utilizing Online Resources and Learning Platforms

4.1. Online Guitar Lessons and Courses

Online guitar lessons and courses offer structured learning paths and expert instruction. According to a report by Global Market Insights, the online music education market is expected to reach $20 billion by 2027, driven by the accessibility and convenience of online learning.

Platforms: Explore platforms like LEARNS.EDU.VN, Coursera, Udemy, and TrueFire.
Structure: Look for courses with structured lessons, practice exercises, and feedback.
Instructors: Choose instructors with experience and positive reviews.
Content: Ensure the content aligns with your goals and skill level.
LEARNS.EDU.VN: Offers a wide range of guitar lessons and courses, from beginner to advanced, with expert instructors and structured learning paths.

4.2. YouTube Channels for Guitar Learning

YouTube channels for guitar learning provide a wealth of free tutorials, tips, and song lessons. A study by Pew Research Center found that YouTube is a primary source of learning for many musicians.

Channels: Explore channels like Marty Music, JustinGuitar, and GuitarLessons365.
Content: Look for channels that offer clear explanations, helpful tips, and song tutorials.
Variety: Choose channels that cover a range of styles and techniques.
Practice: Supplement your learning with regular practice and application.
LEARNS.EDU.VN: Curates a list of top YouTube channels for guitar learning, providing a convenient starting point for your exploration.

4.3. Guitar Tabs and Chord Websites

Guitar tabs and chord websites provide access to a vast library of songs and arrangements. Research from the University of California, Berkeley, indicates that access to online resources enhances learning outcomes for musicians.

Websites: Explore websites like Ultimate-Guitar, Chordify, and Guitar Tabs.
Accuracy: Verify the accuracy of tabs and chords by listening to the original songs.
Practice: Use tabs and chords to learn new songs and expand your repertoire.
Arrangements: Look for arrangements that match your skill level and musical taste.
LEARNS.EDU.VN: Offers a curated selection of accurate and reliable guitar tabs and chords, along with tutorials on how to read and use them effectively.

4.4. Mobile Apps for Guitar Practice

Mobile apps for guitar practice offer convenient tools for tuning, chord diagrams, metronomes, and practice exercises. A report by Sensor Tower found that music education apps have seen a significant increase in usage, reflecting the growing popularity of mobile learning.

Apps: Explore apps like Guitar Tuna, Yousician, and Ultimate Guitar.
Features: Look for apps with tuning tools, chord diagrams, metronomes, and practice exercises.
Convenience: Use apps to practice anytime, anywhere.
Feedback: Choose apps that provide feedback on your playing.
LEARNS.EDU.VN: Recommends top mobile apps for guitar practice, with reviews and comparisons to help you choose the best tools for your needs.

5. Learning Songs That Inspire You

5.1. Choosing Songs Based on Your Skill Level

Choosing songs based on your skill level is essential for maintaining motivation and avoiding frustration. A study by the University of Texas at Austin found that students who chose appropriately challenging songs progressed faster and enjoyed learning more.

Beginner: Start with songs that use basic chords and simple strumming patterns.
Intermediate: Choose songs with barre chords, fingerpicking, and more complex rhythms.
Advanced: Challenge yourself with songs that feature advanced techniques, improvisation, and complex arrangements.
Progression: Gradually increase the difficulty of the songs you learn.
LEARNS.EDU.VN: Provides song recommendations tailored to different skill levels, helping you find songs that are both challenging and achievable.

5.2. Breaking Down Songs into Manageable Sections

Breaking down songs into manageable sections makes it easier to learn and master them. Research from the Peabody Institute of Music suggests that breaking down complex tasks into smaller components enhances learning efficiency.

Sections: Divide songs into sections such as intro, verse, chorus, and bridge.
Practice: Practice each section separately until you can play it smoothly.
Combine: Gradually combine the sections until you can play the entire song.
Repetition: Use repetition to reinforce your learning.
LEARNS.EDU.VN: Offers song tutorials that break down songs into manageable sections, with step-by-step instructions and practice tips.

5.3. Using Tabs and Chord Charts Effectively

Using tabs and chord charts effectively can streamline your learning process. A study by the Berklee College of Music found that students who used tabs and chord charts effectively learned songs more quickly and accurately.

Reading: Learn to read tabs and chord charts accurately.
Fingering: Pay attention to the fingering suggestions in the tabs and charts.
Listening: Listen to the original song to verify the accuracy of the tabs and chords.
Practice: Practice along with the recording to improve your timing and accuracy.
LEARNS.EDU.VN: Provides a library of accurate and reliable tabs and chord charts, along with tutorials on how to read and use them effectively.

5.4. Performing and Recording Your Progress

Performing and recording your progress provides valuable feedback and boosts your confidence. Research from the Juilliard School indicates that performance and recording enhance self-awareness and motivation.

Performance: Perform for friends, family, or at open mic nights.
Recording: Record yourself playing and listen back to identify areas for improvement.
Feedback: Seek feedback from other musicians.
Reflection: Reflect on your progress and set new goals.
LEARNS.EDU.VN: Offers resources and tips on performing and recording your guitar playing, helping you track your progress and gain confidence.

6. Staying Motivated and Overcoming Challenges

6.1. Setting Short-Term and Long-Term Goals

Setting short-term and long-term goals keeps you focused and motivated. A study by the University of Michigan found that setting both types of goals enhances achievement and satisfaction.

Short-Term: Set weekly or monthly goals, such as learning a new chord or mastering a specific technique.
Long-Term: Set goals for several months or a year, such as learning to play a challenging song or performing at a public event.
Review: Regularly review your goals and adjust them as needed.
Celebrate: Celebrate your achievements along the way.
LEARNS.EDU.VN: Offers goal-setting tools and progress trackers to help you stay motivated and achieve your guitar learning objectives.

6.2. Finding a Practice Routine That Works for You

Finding a practice routine that works for you is essential for consistent progress. Research from the Eastman School of Music suggests that personalized practice routines enhance learning efficiency and retention.

Time: Schedule regular practice sessions at a time that works best for you.
Duration: Practice for at least 15-30 minutes each day.
Focus: Focus on specific techniques or songs during each practice session.
Variety: Vary your practice routine to keep it interesting.
LEARNS.EDU.VN: Provides customizable practice routines tailored to your skill level and goals, helping you make the most of your practice time.

6.3. Joining a Guitar Community or Finding a Mentor

Joining a guitar community or finding a mentor provides support, feedback, and inspiration. A study by the Musicians Foundation found that musicians who were part of a community experienced greater success and well-being.

Online Forums: Join online guitar forums and communities.
Local Groups: Attend local guitar meetups or jam sessions.
Mentors: Seek guidance from experienced guitarists or instructors.
Collaboration: Collaborate with other musicians.
LEARNS.EDU.VN: Connects you with a vibrant community of guitar learners and mentors, providing a supportive environment for your musical journey.

6.4. Dealing with Frustration and Plateaus

Dealing with frustration and plateaus is a normal part of the learning process. Research from the Juilliard School indicates that resilience and perseverance are key to overcoming challenges in musical education.

Patience: Be patient with yourself and recognize that progress takes time.
Breaks: Take breaks when you feel frustrated.
Seek Help: Seek help from instructors or mentors.
Focus: Focus on your progress and celebrate your achievements.
LEARNS.EDU.VN: Offers resources and support to help you overcome frustration and plateaus, including tips on maintaining a positive mindset and strategies for breaking through learning barriers.

7. Advanced Techniques and Styles to Explore

7.1. Tapping and Sweep Picking

Tapping and sweep picking are advanced techniques that allow you to play fast and complex guitar solos. A study by the Guitar Institute of Technology (GIT) emphasizes the importance of mastering these techniques for advanced guitarists.

Tapping: Learn to use your fingers to tap notes on the fretboard.
Sweep Picking: Practice sweeping across the strings with a single pick stroke.
Exercises: Use exercises to develop your tapping and sweep picking skills.
Examples: Listen to guitarists like Eddie Van Halen, Yngwie Malmsteen, and Paul Gilbert.
LEARNS.EDU.VN: Offers lessons on tapping and sweep picking techniques, with exercises and examples to help you master these advanced skills.

7.2. Alternate Tunings

Alternate tunings open up new sonic possibilities and chord voicings on the guitar. Research from the Musicians Institute in Hollywood indicates that exploring alternate tunings enhances creativity and expands your musical palette.

Common Tunings: Explore tunings like Drop D, DADGAD, and Open G.
Chord Voicings: Learn new chord voicings in each tuning.
Songwriting: Experiment with songwriting in alternate tunings.
Examples: Listen to songs by artists like Joni Mitchell, Led Zeppelin, and Nick Drake.
LEARNS.EDU.VN: Provides tutorials on alternate tunings, with chord charts and song examples to help you explore the possibilities of these tunings.

7.3. Hybrid Picking and Chicken Picking

Hybrid picking and chicken picking combine fingerpicking and flatpicking techniques for a unique sound. A study by the Country Music Hall of Fame highlights the prevalence of these techniques in country and bluegrass guitar.

Hybrid Picking: Use a pick and fingers to pluck the strings.
Chicken Picking: Emphasize the upstrokes with the pick for a percussive sound.
Exercises: Practice exercises to develop your hybrid picking and chicken picking skills.
Examples: Listen to guitarists like Brent Mason, Danny Gatton, and Albert Lee.
LEARNS.EDU.VN: Offers lessons on hybrid picking and chicken picking techniques, with exercises and examples to help you master these styles.

7.4. Slide Guitar

Slide guitar involves using a slide to glide along the strings, creating a smooth and expressive sound. Research from the Chicago Blues Museum emphasizes the importance of slide guitar in blues and rock music.

Technique: Learn to use a slide to create smooth and expressive notes.
Tuning: Experiment with different tunings for slide guitar.
Vibrato: Develop your vibrato technique for slide guitar.
Examples: Listen to guitarists like Duane Allman, Ry Cooder, and Bonnie Raitt.
LEARNS.EDU.VN: Provides tutorials on slide guitar techniques, with tips on choosing a slide, setting up your guitar, and developing your playing style.

8. Exploring Guitar Effects and Gear

8.1. Understanding Basic Guitar Effects Pedals

Understanding basic guitar effects pedals can greatly expand your sonic possibilities. A study by the Berklee College of Music found that experimenting with effects pedals enhances creativity and allows guitarists to develop unique sounds.

Overdrive/Distortion: These pedals add gain and sustain to your signal.
Delay/Reverb: These pedals create echoes and ambience.
Chorus/Flanger: These pedals create swirling and shimmering effects.
Wah: This pedal creates a sweeping filter effect.
LEARNS.EDU.VN: Offers a comprehensive guide to guitar effects pedals, with explanations of how each type of pedal works and tips on how to use them effectively.

8.2. Choosing the Right Guitar for Your Style

Choosing the right guitar for your style can make a significant difference in your playing experience. Research from the Guitar Institute of Technology (GIT) indicates that different guitars are better suited for different genres and playing styles.

Electric Guitars: Solid-body guitars are great for rock and metal, while hollow-body guitars are better for jazz and blues.
Acoustic Guitars: Steel-string guitars are common for folk and country, while nylon-string guitars are used for classical and flamenco.
Considerations: Consider factors like body style, neck profile, pickups, and tonewoods.
LEARNS.EDU.VN: Provides a detailed guide to choosing the right guitar, with recommendations for different styles and budgets.

8.3. Amplifiers and Their Impact on Tone

Amplifiers play a crucial role in shaping your guitar tone. A study by the Musicians Institute in Hollywood emphasizes the importance of understanding amplifiers for achieving your desired sound.

Types: Explore different types of amplifiers, such as tube amps, solid-state amps, and modeling amps.
Settings: Experiment with the settings on your amplifier to shape your tone.
Speakers: Understand the impact of different speaker types on your sound.
LEARNS.EDU.VN: Offers a comprehensive guide to guitar amplifiers, with explanations of how different types of amps work and tips on how to dial in your desired tone.

8.4. Cables, Picks, and Other Accessories

Cables, picks, and other accessories can also impact your guitar playing experience. Research from the Royal College of Music suggests that using high-quality accessories can improve your sound and performance.

Cables: Use high-quality cables to minimize noise and signal loss.
Picks: Experiment with different pick thicknesses and materials to find what works best for you.
Straps: Choose a comfortable strap that supports your guitar properly.
LEARNS.EDU.VN: Provides recommendations for essential guitar accessories, with tips on choosing the right products for your needs and budget.

9. Understanding the Guitar Learning Mindset

9.1. Embracing the Learning Process

Embracing the learning process is crucial for long-term success. Recognize that learning guitar is a journey, not a destination. Enjoy the process of discovery and celebrate your progress along the way.

9.2. Staying Persistent

Persistence is key to overcoming challenges. Don’t get discouraged by setbacks. Keep practicing, keep learning, and keep pushing yourself to improve.

9.3. Practicing Mindfully

Mindful practice is more effective than mindless repetition. Pay attention to what you’re doing, focus on your technique, and listen to your sound.

9.4. Being Open to Feedback

Feedback is a valuable tool for improvement. Be open to receiving feedback from instructors, mentors, and other musicians. Use feedback to identify areas for improvement and refine your technique.

LEARNS.EDU.VN is your partner in guitar education, offering not just lessons but a supportive community and a wealth of resources to fuel your musical journey. Whether you’re starting with basic chords or exploring advanced techniques, we’re here to help you discover your potential and achieve your musical goals.

Ready to unlock your musical potential? Visit LEARNS.EDU.VN today to explore our courses, connect with our community, and start your guitar journey!

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Website: LEARNS.EDU.VN

FAQ: What Should I Learn On Guitar?

1. What are the first things I should learn on guitar as a beginner?

Start with the basics: how to hold the guitar, tuning, basic chords (G, C, D, Em), and simple strumming patterns. Focus on clean finger placement and smooth transitions between chords.

2. How often should I practice guitar to see progress?

Aim for at least 15-30 minutes of practice each day. Consistency is key to building muscle memory and developing your skills.

3. What are some easy songs I can learn as a beginner guitarist?

Try songs that use simple chord progressions like “Let It Be” by The Beatles, “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” by Bob Dylan, or “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen.

4. Should I learn to read music or guitar tabs?

Learning both is beneficial, but tabs are a great starting point for beginners. They’re easier to read and allow you to quickly learn songs. Eventually, learning to read music notation will expand your musical understanding.

5. What are some essential guitar techniques to master?

Master basic chords, strumming patterns, fingerpicking, bending, vibrato, and scales. These techniques form the foundation for playing a wide range of styles and songs.

6. How can I stay motivated while learning guitar?

Set realistic goals, choose songs you enjoy, join a guitar community, and track your progress. Celebrate your achievements and don’t get discouraged by setbacks.

7. What are some common mistakes beginners make when learning guitar?

Common mistakes include improper finger placement, rushing through exercises, not tuning the guitar regularly, and not practicing consistently.

8. What are some good resources for learning guitar online?

Explore platforms like learns.edu.vn, YouTube channels like JustinGuitar and Marty Music, and guitar tab websites like Ultimate-Guitar.

9. How important is it to learn music theory for guitar?

Understanding music theory can greatly enhance your playing and songwriting abilities. It provides a deeper understanding of how music works and allows you to create your own unique sounds.

10. What should I do if I feel stuck or frustrated with my guitar playing?

Take a break, seek help from instructors or mentors, focus on your progress, and celebrate your achievements. Remember that progress takes time, and persistence is key.