10 chords every beginner guitarist should know

(Image credit: Olly Curtis/Future)

The title says it all! These are the 10 must-learn chords that every guitarist uses all the time. If you don’t know these chords, learn them right now.

The dots tell you where to put your fingers, and the numbers tell you which of your four fingers to use. Black dots are root notes, while the 'x' and 'o' marks at the top of the diagrams indicate muted (not played) and open strings respectively.

Start with C before moving on to the rest of the shapes.

Don't Miss

30 chords acoustic guitar players need to know

5 easy ways to improve your guitar barre chords

Total Guitar

Total Guitar is Europe's best-selling guitar magazine.

Every month we feature interviews with the biggest names and hottest new acts in guitar land, plus Guest Lessons from the stars.

Finally, our Rocked & Rated section is the place to go for reviews, round-ups and help setting up your guitars and gear.

Subscribe: http://bit.ly/totalguitar