G Chord
How to play G major on guitar — bright and settled — the default, happy-sounding chord.
- Notes
- G – B – D
- Frets (low → high)
- 3 2 0 0 0 3
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Shape
- Movable shape at fret 2
How to play G, step by step
- 1Put your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the low E string (6th).
- 2Put your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the A string (5th).
- 3Put your little finger on the 3rd fret of the high E string (1st).
- 4Let the D, G and B strings ring open.
- 5Strum slowly and check every string sounds cleanly; if one buzzes, press closer to the fret wire and arch your fingers so they clear the neighbouring strings.
What makes a major chord
Bright and settled — the default, happy-sounding chord.
| Note | Interval | Semitones above G |
|---|---|---|
| G | root | 0 |
| B | major 3rd | 4 |
| D | 5th | 7 |
Which keys use G?
G appears in these keys, so a song built on it is most likely in one of them. Each page shows the full chord set and the easiest capo position.
Other G chords
Same root, different colour. Swapping one of these into a progression is the quickest way to change its mood without changing the key.
Every major chord
The same shape moved around the neck. If you can play G you are a fret-slide away from all of these.
Frequently asked questions
- What notes are in the G chord?
- G is made of G, B, D — the root, major 3rd, 5th of G.
- Is G hard to play?
- No — G sits at 3 2 0 0 0 3 and is rated easy, so it is comfortable for most beginners.
Got a chart full of chords like G?
Upload a chord sheet and move every chord into a key that fits your hands and your voice — the layout stays exactly as printed. Or let the capo calculator pick the position that turns the barre chords into open ones.