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D Major Chord

Chord Diagram

D major chord fingering diagram for guitar. Place your index finger on the second fret of the high E string, middle finger on the second fret of the D string, and ring finger on the third fret of the B string. The low E and A strings are not played, while the G string is played open.✕✕○○○○231EADGBE

X = Don't play this string

O = Play open string

Numbers = Finger placement

Finger Positions

1st Finger (Index)

2nd fret of the high E string (1st string)

2nd Finger (Middle)

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

3rd Finger (Ring)

3rd fret of the B string (2nd string)

Pro Tip: The D chord uses only the top 4 strings. Make sure to avoid strumming the low E and A strings.

D Chord Variations

D Major 7

Add jazzy flavor

xx0222

Dsus2

Open, airy sound

xx0230

Dsus4

Creates tension

xx0233

Common Progressions with D

D - A - Bm - G

Popular progression in modern pop

DABmG

D - G - A

Classic 3-chord progression

DGA

D - Bm - G - A

Great for ballads and folk songs

DBmGA

Practice Tips for D Chord

Common Mistakes

  • • Accidentally playing the low E and A strings
  • • Not pressing strings firmly enough
  • • Fingers too close to the frets
  • • Muting the G string with the middle finger

Practice Exercises

  • • Strum only the top 4 strings clearly
  • • Practice transitioning: D → A → D
  • • Work on chord changes with G and A
  • • Try different strumming patterns

Popular Songs Using D Chord

Wish You Were Here

Pink Floyd

Intermediate

Hotel California

Eagles

Intermediate

Dust in the Wind

Kansas

Intermediate

Free Fallin'

Tom Petty

Beginner

Crazy Little Thing Called Love

Queen

Beginner

Behind Blue Eyes

The Who

Intermediate
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