Learn chord shapes (open chords and barre chords) and how each maps to fretted positions
Identify the chord name and the specific chord shape you’ll use on the neck
Read the rhythm first (time signature, bar lines, and note groupings)
Use chord symbols to know what to pluck (e.g., C, G7, Am)
Follow strumming/plucking patterns indicated by arrows, slash marks, or rhythmic notation
If a chart shows “pluck” notes, read them as individual strings to strike with the picking hand
Read stems and noteheads to determine which string/note is plucked when standard notation is provided
Use tablature (if present) to see the exact string and fret for each plucked note
For tab, read left to right, pluck each listed fret on the corresponding string
Match chord symbols above the staff/tab to the notes shown below (ensure the frets/note names line up)
For arpeggiated chords, pluck the chord tones in the order shown by the pattern
Use chord-tone order rules from the chart (top-to-bottom, bottom-to-top, or specified sequence)
Keep the held chord shape while plucking the indicated notes until the next chord change
Pay attention to chord change timing (where the next chord symbol appears in the measure)
Use “let ring”/tie indicators (if shown) to know when notes should continue sounding
Follow dynamics (accent marks, “p”/“f”) if included to shape plucking intensity
Use muting indicators (x, “palm mute,” or damp marks) to stop strings when required
Practice slowly with a metronome and pluck one note at a time following the exact order shown
Confirm your plucked notes match the chord shape (root, third, fifth, and added tones as indicated)
Re-check string selection in tab (string numbers or highest/lowest string positions) before playing at speed