How to Read Guitar Tabs (Step by Step)
Quick answer
Tab has six lines, one for each string. The top line is the thin high E string and the bottom line is the thick low E. A number tells you which fret to press on that string, and 0 means play the string open. Read from left to right. When numbers are stacked on top of each other, play them together as a chord. Tab usually doesn't show rhythm, so listen to the song as you read.
Step 1: Match the lines to your strings
From top to bottom in standard tuning: E (high), B, G, D, A, E (low). It feels upside down at first, because the top line is the string nearest the floor when you hold the guitar.
e|-----------------| B|-----------------| G|-----------------| D|-----------------| A|-0--1--3---------| E|-----------------|
This tab says: play the A string open, then at fret 1, then at fret 3, one note at a time.
Step 2: Play single notes left to right
Press just behind the fret with your fingertip, pick only that string, and let it ring. Go slowly. Accuracy first, speed later.
Step 3: Play stacked numbers as a chord
e|-0-| B|-1-| G|-0-| D|-2-| A|-3-| E|-x-|
That is a C major chord. x means don't play (or mute) that string. Compare it with the chord box in our chord library.
Step 4: Learn the common symbols
- h hammer-on (3h5: pick fret 3, then press fret 5 without picking again)
- p pull-off
- b bend
- / slide up and \ slide down
- x muted or not played
Step 5: Get the rhythm from the recording
Most tab shows only the notes, not the timing. Some tabs add the tempo, the time signature and wider spacing for longer notes. Listen to the song, tap the beat, then play along slowly with the free metronome.
Step 6: Check the tuning line
Good tabs say which tuning they use. If it isn't standard (Drop D, for example), retune first with our free tuner, or nothing will sound right.
Practise reading tab now
Try a public-domain song from our easy guitar songs for beginners list, or work through the tabs section. Free tabs online aren't always accurate or licensed, so check them against the recording.
FAQ
Is tab better than sheet music?
For learning guitar songs fast, usually yes. Sheet music gives more detail, including exact rhythm, key and dynamics, but you need to read music to use it.
Why does the tab look upside down?
The top line is the high E string. That string is nearest the floor when you play, but it is the 1st string, so it goes at the top.
Sources checked
- Fender: How to Read Tabs (checked Oct 20 2026): www.fender.com/articles/techniques/how-to-read-tabs
Not hands-on testing: FretCompare summarises official instructions and published facts. Steps and terms change, so follow the official page if it differs.
Once you can read tab, a songbook gives you dozens of songs to practise. See our best guitar tab books for beginners - including which ones are tab-only and which use notation.