How To Read Tablature?

Read tablature from left to right

Each horizontal line represents a string

The bottom line is the lowest-pitched string

The top line is the highest-pitched string

Numbers show which fret to press

A 0 means play the string open

Stacked numbers mean play notes at the same time

Numbers spaced apart mean play notes one after another

Letters or symbols may indicate techniques

Common symbols include hammer-ons, pull-offs, bends, slides, and vibrato

The tuning is usually shown at the start of the tab

The rhythm may be shown separately or implied by spacing

The instrument determines how the strings are ordered

Check the tab’s legend if symbols are unfamiliar

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