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C Major Chord

Chord Diagram

C major chord fingering diagram for guitar. Place your index finger on the first fret of the B string, middle finger on the second fret of the D string, and ring finger on the third fret of the A string. The low E string is not played, while the A, G, and high E strings are played open.✕○○123EADGBE

X = Don't play this string

O = Play open string

Numbers = Finger placement

Finger Positions

1st Finger (Index)

1st fret of the B string (2nd string)

2nd Finger (Middle)

2nd fret of the D string (4th string)

3rd Finger (Ring)

3rd fret of the A string (5th string)

Pro Tip: Keep your thumb behind the neck and curve your fingers to avoid touching other strings.

C Chord Variations

C Major 7

Add jazzy flavor

x32000

Csus2

Open, airy sound

x30013

Csus4

Creates tension

x33010

Common Progressions with C

C - G - Am - F

The most popular progression in pop music

CGAmF

C - Am - F - G

Classic progression for ballads

CAmFG

C - F - G

Simple 3-chord progression for beginners

CFG

Practice Tips for C Chord

Common Mistakes

  • • Not pressing strings firmly enough
  • • Accidentally muting the G string with finger 3
  • • Playing the low E string (6th string)
  • • Fingers too far from frets

Practice Exercises

  • • Strum each string individually to check clarity
  • • Practice transitioning: C → G → C
  • • Use a metronome starting at 60 BPM
  • • Try fingerpicking patterns

Popular Songs Using C Chord

Let It Be

The Beatles

Beginner

No Woman No Cry

Bob Marley

Beginner

Wonderwall

Oasis

Intermediate

Hey Soul Sister

Train

Beginner

Someone Like You

Adele

Intermediate

Perfect

Ed Sheeran

Intermediate
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