🎸 How to Play a Power Chord

Power chords are the backbone of rock, metal, punk, and tons of modern guitar riffs. They’re simple, clean, and you only need two or three fingers. Here’s a beginner-friendly guide.

---

1. Pick a Starting Note

Start with your index finger on:

• Low E string, 5th fret — this is your root note.

---

2. Add Your Third Finger

Place your ring finger on:

• A string, 7th fret — two frets higher, one string down.

    E string — 5 (index)
    A string — 7 (ring)
        

---

3. Add the Pinky (Optional)

For a heavier sound, add your pinky on:

• D string, 7th fret

    E string — 5 (index)
    A string — 7 (ring)
    D string — 7 (pinky)
        

---

4. Strum Only the Needed Strings

Strum the bottom three strings:

• 6th string (E)
• 5th string (A)
• 4th string (D)

Lightly touch the G string with your index finger to mute it if needed.

---

5. Move It Anywhere

The power chord shape is movable. Slide it anywhere for instant new chords:

• 3rd fret, E string → G5
• 1st fret, E string → F5
• 3rd fret, A string → C5

---

6. Try a Simple Riff

    A5 (5th fret E) → G5 (3rd fret E) → F5 (1st fret E)
        

Just slide the whole shape and keep the fingers locked in place.