Standard Guitar Tuning
Standard sets the six strings from low to high to E A D G B E. Its balanced and familiar voice works especially well for general guitar learning, songs, chords and scales.
Do this first
No theory test. No perfect technique required. Follow these three steps and start making music.
Tap each string to hear it
What changes in Standard
No strings move from the universal E A D G B E reference, so every conventional chord and scale diagram remains valid.
Make the tuning sound intentional
Match each string to the reference, play an E minor chord, then move through G–C–D without stopping.
Shape tip: Start with E minor, G, C, D and A minor, then use the open E and A strings as tonal anchors.
Retune to E A D G B E safely
A normal electric or acoustic string set and standard setup are appropriate.
Change one string at a time, approach the target pitch gradually and recheck every string after the neck settles. Stop if a string feels unusually tight, the bridge lifts or the instrument reacts unpredictably.
Turn the open strings into music
Quick answers before you play
What are the notes in Standard Guitar Tuning?
From the sixth string to the first string, tune to E A D G B E. Use the six playable reference notes above and recheck them after the neck settles.
Is Standard Guitar Tuning safe for my guitar?
A normal electric or acoustic string set and standard setup are appropriate. Stop if a string feels unusually tight, the bridge moves or the guitar becomes difficult to intonate.
Can I use normal chord shapes in Standard Guitar Tuning?
Some shapes may still work, but a standard tuning changes at least part of the fretboard. Start with the open strings, simple drones and the shape guidance on this page.
Why do the strings go out of tune again after retuning?
Changing one string changes the total tension on the neck. Tune all six strings, wait briefly and repeat the process until every reference pitch remains stable.