Major Scale Fingerings

These 7 guitar fingerings represent the most commonly played patterns on the guitar, including the major scale, the minor scale, and 5 other "modes" that can be used to develop a command over the most common patterns on the instrument.

One of the most crucial tasks for any guitar player is to memorize these seven major scale fingerings. These patterns can be conceived of as 7 different fingerings for the major scale, or they can be thought of as "modes"—scales based on reordering the notes of the major scale. Don't worry too much about the names of the modes. Just focus on memorizing the patterns.

These are the 2 or 3 note-per-string patterns. They are chosen for this level because they require fewer stretches than the 3-note-per-string patterns.

Pattern 1 – Ionian (Major Scale)

Pattern 2 – Dorian

Pattern 3 – Phrygian

Pattern 4 – Lydian

Pattern 5 – Mixolydian

Pattern 6 – Aeolian (Minor Scale)

Pattern 7 – Locrian

Key Tasks

1. Memorize the 7 scale patterns.
2. Practice the patterns using strict alternate picking.
3. For more of a workout with the 7 scales, see our diatonic sequences scale workout.