E Major Chord & E5 Power Chord for Total Beginners

I walk you through how to play your first full sounding chord — the E major chord

• How to make it ring out clearly

• Easy one-finger version: the E5 power chord, perfect for rock songs and heavier sounds

Key Points from the Lesson:

E Major Chord Setup:

Only needs three fingers

Finger placement:

• Index: string 3, fret 1

• Middle: string 5, fret 2

• Ring: string 4, fret 2

Tips:

• Use fingertips and keep knuckles curled

• Avoid touching the guitar neck with the palm (on our fingertips to help all the notes ring out)

Strumming Tips:

• Use a pick for a bright, clear sound

• Can also use the nail of the index finger or thumb

• Strum all six strings from the top down with controlled motion

Chord Diagram Explanations

• Thick top line = nut of the guitar

• Diagram shown vertically for both left- and right-handed players

• Finger dots show fret positions, but aim for fingers just behind the fret

Sound Checking:

• Pick each string (6 to 1) to check clarity

• Muted or buzzing notes usually caused by flat fingers or poor hand posture

• Curl fingers and position thumb on back of the neck

E5 Power Chord Introduction:

• Simplified version of E major

• Played using just open string 6 and 5 with one finger (string 5, fret 2)

• Great for overdriven rock tones (e.g., AC/DC, Joan Jett)

• Important to mute other strings for clarity

• Ideal for early electric guitar playing and building confidence!

Technique Refinement:

• Practice lifting and placing the E major shape without altering finger position to build muscle memory

• Keep elbow in, thumb low, and form a “claw” hand shape

Final Advice:

• Focus on memorising chord shapes, not just individual finger positions

• Major and minor chords unlock the ability to play virtually any song, unlike just using power chords which don't have these qualities