Read the six horizontal lines as the six guitar strings
Identify the strings from top to bottom as high E, B, G, D, A, low E
Read numbers on the lines as frets to press
Read 0 as an open string
Read stacked numbers as notes played at the same time
Read numbers from left to right as the order of notes
Use spacing to judge timing and rhythm
Read symbols like h, p, /, , b, and ~ for techniques
Check the tab’s tuning if it is specified
Match the tab with the song’s rhythm by listening if needed