A Chord
The most fundamental happy-sounding chord — root, major 3rd, perfect 5th.
String-by-String Fingering
Mute the Low E string so it does not ring.
Play the A string open (A).
Fret the D string at fret 2 with your index finger (E).
Fret the G string at fret 2 with your middle finger (A).
Fret the B string at fret 2 with your ring finger (C#).
Play the High E string open (E).
Finger Number Legend
How to Play It
- Start your strum from the A string and avoid any strings marked X.
- Keep your fingertips close to the fret wire so the A chord rings without buzz.
- Fret notes on the tips of your fingers to avoid muting adjacent strings.
- Strum only the strings the chord uses — no wandering thumb.
Suggested Strumming Pattern
Down, down-up, down-up, down-up; start slowly and listen for every open string to ring clearly.
Common Mistakes
- Muting the high E string with a lazy 3rd finger.
- Buzz on the 3rd string from insufficient pressure.
- Strumming into muted strings instead of stopping at the first ringing string.
Songs That Use This Chord Type
- • Wonderwall — Oasis
- • Let It Be — The Beatles
- • Sweet Home Alabama — Lynyrd Skynyrd
Alternative Shape
Try this movable version when you need a different neck position, a tighter rock rhythm sound, or a smoother transition from nearby barre chords.
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