Guitar Strings Order: The Complete Beginner-Friendly Guide

Starting your guitar journey is exciting but let’s be honest, it can also feel a little confusing at first. One of the most common beginner questions is:

What is the correct guitar strings order?

It might seem like a small detail, but understanding the string order is the foundation of everything you’ll do whether it’s tuning, learning chords, or playing your first song.

In this guide, we’ll break it down in the simplest way possible so you can not only understand it but remember it for life.

What Is the Guitar Strings Order?

A standard guitar has six strings, and each string is tuned to a specific note. This setup is called standard tuning, which is used in most songs across genres.

The correct guitar strings order (from thickest to thinnest) is:

E – A – D – G – B – E

• The first E is called the Low E (6th string)
• The last E is called the High E (1st string)

Even though they share the same note name, they sound completely different because of their thickness and pitch.

Understanding the Direction (This Confuses Everyone!)

Here’s where most beginners get stuck.

When holding your guitar in playing position:

• The top string (closest to your face) = Thickest string (Low E)
• The bottom string (closest to the floor) = Thinnest string (High E)

This means:

• Top = 6th string
• Bottom = 1st string

It feels backward at first but once you practice, it becomes second nature.

String Names + Numbers (Super Important)

Each string has both a name and a number. You’ll see both used in tutorials, tabs, and lessons.

 

Quick takeaway:

• 1 = thinnest
• 6 = thickest

Easy Memory Tricks (So You Never Forget)

Memorizing E – A – D – G – B – E can feel random at first. These memory tricks make it effortless:

Popular Mnemonics:

• Eddie Ate Dynamite, Good Bye Eddie
• Every Amateur Does Get Better Eventually

Create Your Own

The best trick? Make your own sentence. It sticks better because it’s personal.

Why Guitar Strings Order Matters More Than You Think

Understanding string order isn’t just theory it directly affects how fast you improve.

1. Accurate Tuning

You can’t tune your guitar properly if you don’t know which string is which.

2. Reading Chord Diagrams

Chord charts refer to string numbers. Without this knowledge, they’ll look confusing.

3. Playing Songs Correctly

Even simple songs require awareness of which string to play or avoid.

4. Building Muscle Memory

The earlier you learn it, the faster your hands adapt naturally.

Real-Life Example: How It Applies While Playing

Let’s say you’re playing a simple chord like G major.

A tutorial might say:

• “Start from the 6th string”
• “Mute the 5th string”
• “Strum from the top”

If you don’t know the string order, this becomes frustrating.

But once you understand it, everything becomes clear and easy to follow.

Beginner Practice Routine (5-Minute Daily Drill)

Consistency beats everything. Try this simple routine:

Step 1: Say It Out Loud

Play each string and say:
E – A – D – G – B – E

Step 2: Go Reverse

Now go backward:
E – B – G – D – A – E

Step 3: Random Pick

Close your eyes and pick a string. Try to name it instantly.

Do this daily, and within a week you’ll never forget it.

Common Mistakes Beginners Make

Let’s save you from frustration:

Mixing Up String Numbers

Remember:

• 1st = thinnest
• 6th = thickest

Confusing Top and Bottom

Top (visually) = thickest
Bottom = thinnest

Ignoring Tuning

Even if you know the order, an untuned guitar will sound wrong.

Trying to Memorize Without Practice

Reading isn’t enough touch and play the strings daily.

Pro Tip: Combine Learning with Music

Learning becomes easier when it’s enjoyable.

• Practice string order while playing your favorite songs
• Use background music or a speaker for a relaxed vibe
• Turn practice into a daily habit, not a chore

This is where music meets lifestyle something brands like Openhagen strongly align with: making everyday experiences smoother and more enjoyable.

Final Thoughts

The guitar strings order might seem like a small detail but it’s actually one of the most important building blocks of your entire guitar journey.

Once you master this:

• Tuning becomes easier
• Chords make sense
• Songs feel more natural

Keep practicing, stay consistent, and most importantly enjoy the process.

What’s Next?

Once you’re comfortable with string order, the next step is:

• Learning how to tune a guitar
• Understanding basic chords
• Reading guitar tabs