It’s no secret, everyone loves the guitar. This ubiquitous instrument has appeared in almost every musical genre for decades: jazz, country, folk, pop, rock, Americana, and more. As a result of its popularity and versatility, millions of people have picked up the guitar with every intention of learning to play it. 

But for some reason or another, most people don’t stick it out. More often than not, the guitar gets put back in its case and placed out of sight, where it lives untouched for years. That’s because learning a new instrument can be a difficult, frustrating process. Whether you’re just starting out or your guitar has been living in the closet for 6 months, here are some of the easiest ways to learn how to play the guitar. 

Begin with Starter Chords

Often referred to as “stepping stone chords”, starter chords are simply easier versions of standard chords. For example, Em requires 2 fingers while Em7 only requires one. F major is a barre chord requiring all of your fingers, but Fmaj7 only requires 3 fingers and is much easier for beginners to play. Of course, the goal is to use these chords temporarily and then graduate to the standard chords once you’re ready, but it’s a great stepping stone. 

Play Along with Your Favorite Songs

Once you get comfortable playing several chords, try listening to some of your favorite songs and see if you can play along with them. If you’re struggling to play along, try looking up a tab or chord chart for the song, and go from there. Playing along with these songs will not only help you practice chords in a fun way, but it will also help improve your musical ear. 

Ask All Your Guitar Questions

If you know a guitarist, try asking them what they did to learn how to play. If you don’t know any guitarists personally, try going onto an online forum or discussion board and asking any questions that you have. More seasoned guitarists will no doubt have helpful advice, tips, and tricks to share that you can implement into your learning plan. 

Online guitar lessons

Another great way to learn guitar quickly and easily is by using an online app or platform, such as GuitarTricks. Ideal for motivated individuals who want to learn at home, GuitarTricks offers tailored classes for both beginners and experienced players. It teaches you the fundamentals of the guitar before branching out into different genres and styles. GuitarTricks also offers a free trial for 14 days, which gives you plenty of time to learn without feeling the pressure to pay. 

Online or In-Person Tutor

For people who learn best directly from others, a tutor may be the way to go. Although learning from someone in person is the best way to master an instrument, there are also virtual options for those who prefer to learn at home. Your tutor can help you develop a practice schedule and a repertoire of great songs. Working with a tutor can also help you feel more accountable, which will help you find the motivation to push through when you feel like giving up. 

Find the Right Guitar

While this may seem obvious, it’s crucial to find a guitar that you feel comfortable playing, whether it’s acoustic or electric, right-handed or left-handed. If your guitar feels awkward or uncomfortable in your hands, it’s going to make the learning process even more difficult, and you’ll likely feel like throwing in the towel. But if you find a guitar that Go to a Jam Session

Once you’ve mastered a few chords and feel confident about them, try going to a jam session. Play with other beginner guitarists and see what you can teach each other. Plus, playing with other people is always a lot of fun, and it will motivate you to learn even more. Learning how to play an instrument is always difficult, but it’s so much easier when you have people to play with who encourage you to keep going. 

Practice and Be Patient

While there are several tips, tricks and techniques to make learning the guitar easier, the best way to learn is to practice and be patient. It may sound obvious, but as long as you’re practicing regularly and allowing yourself the time you need to learn, you’re more likely to stick with it. If you get frustrated with yourself, you’re more likely to give up. Practice and be patient, and you might just surprise yourself. 

Bottom Line

Learning a new skill is always difficult. There will be times when you feel like putting your guitar back into its case and stocking it somewhere out of sight. But, as long as you practice, stay motivated, and use the recommended tips and tricks, you’re sure to rock on.