Guitar Dictionary Category
Notation & Reading
What Are Guitar String Numbers?
Guitar strings are numbered from the highest-pitched, thinnest string to the lowest-pitched, thickest string. On a standard six-string guitar:
- 1st string: high E
- 2nd string: B
- 3rd string: G
- 4th string: D
- 5th string: A
- 6th string: low E
The numbering does not run from the player’s physical top to bottom view. When the guitar is held normally, the sixth string is visually nearest the ceiling, but it remains the sixth string.
Circled String Numbers in Notation
In standard guitar notation, a string choice is commonly shown with a circled number such as ①, ② or ⑥. The symbol tells the player which string should produce the written pitch. This matters because the same pitch can often be played in several locations.
A plain number near a note usually indicates a left-hand finger. A circled number indicates a string. TAB uses six horizontal lines instead of circled string indicators.
String Numbers in TAB
In guitar TAB, the highest horizontal line represents the first string and the lowest line represents the sixth string. This looks like the guitar viewed from the player’s perspective while looking down toward the fretboard.
The number printed on a TAB line is a fret number, not a string number. For example, 3 on the second line means second string, third fret.
Alternate Tunings
String numbers remain the same when the tuning changes. In Drop D, the sixth string becomes D but is still string 6. In Open D, the first string is tuned down to D but remains string 1.
Always check the tuning at the beginning of a score or TAB. A correct string number in the wrong tuning produces the wrong pitch.
Why an Editor Specifies a String
String choice affects tone, sustain, fingering and position. A melody played on a lower string higher up the neck often sounds warmer than the same pitches played on open or higher strings. A specified string may also preserve legato or prepare the next chord.
String-Number Exercise
Play the open strings in order 6–5–4–3–2–1, then reverse them. Next, play every written E available in first position and name both the pitch and string number. This separates note identity from physical location.
Why String Numbers Matter
String numbers give guitar notation the physical information that pitch alone cannot provide. They help the player reproduce an intended tone, position and fingering without requiring a full line of TAB.
Kalymi Tip
Say the string number aloud whenever you tune or read TAB until the order becomes automatic. Remember: string 1 is the highest pitch, not the string closest to the ceiling.
When standard notation includes a circled string number, do not ignore it merely because another location feels easier. Test the indicated string and listen for the intended tone, sustain or position advantage.
In alternate tunings, keep the string numbers fixed and change only the pitch names. Write the tuning from string 6 to string 1 before beginning a new score or lesson.
Related Terms
Learn More
- Guitar Chords Chart
- Guitar Scales Chart
- How to Play Classical Guitar: Lesson One
- Open D Guitar Guide
- Guitar Learning Path
- String Indicators in Guitar Notation
Reviewed by
Brent C. Robitaille,
music educator and founder of
Kalymi Music.