How to Tune a Guitar

Know the standard guitar tuning notes

In standard tuning, the six open strings are E, A, D, G, B and E from the thickest string to the thinnest string. The two E strings share a note name but sound in different octaves: the sixth string is the low E2 and the first string is the high E4.

Learning this order is the first step in tuning confidently. Start with the sixth string and work across the instrument one string at a time.

Understand what the tuning pegs do

A tuning peg changes the tension of a string. Tightening the string raises its pitch, while loosening it lowers the pitch. Peg direction can vary with the headstock and string position, so do not rely on a memorized direction. Turn the peg very slightly, pluck again and watch whether the tuner moves higher or lower.

If a string is below its target note, gradually tighten it. If it is above the target, loosen it. Make small movements as you get close to the correct pitch, especially on the thin first and second strings.

Tune each string with a tuner

Clip-on tuners, mobile apps and online tuners all follow the same basic process. A clip-on tuner senses vibration through the headstock and is useful in noisy rooms. A browser tuner listens through your device microphone and works best in a quiet space.

Pluck one open string and let the tuner identify the note. Check whether the pitch is flat or sharp, adjust the matching peg a little, then pluck the string again. Continue until the indicator is centered or shows that the note is in tune. Do not keep turning the peg while an old note fades, because a weak signal produces less reliable readings.

1. Start with the sixth string and tune it to E2.
2. Continue with A2, D3, G3, B3 and E4.
3. Pluck again after every small peg adjustment.
4. Slow down as the tuner approaches the center position.

Approach the target pitch from below

For more stable tuning, approach the target from a slightly lower pitch. If you tune past the note and become sharp, loosen the string until it is a little flat, then tighten it slowly back to the center. This helps remove slack around the tuning post and usually holds the final pitch more consistently.

Avoid large, continuous turns. If a string already feels unusually tight or keeps rising without showing the expected note, stop and check that you are adjusting the correct peg. Forcing a thin string far above its normal pitch can break it.

Check all six strings a second time

After the first pass, return to the low E string and check every string again. Changing one string's tension can slightly affect the neck, bridge and the pitch of the other strings. A guitar that was badly out of tune, or one fitted with new strings, may need two or three passes before every note remains centered.

Tune before every practice session

Temperature, humidity, movement and normal string stretching can all change a guitar's pitch. New strings stretch particularly quickly and often go flat soon after being tuned. Checking your tuning whenever you pick up the guitar turns an unreliable instrument into a dependable starting point for chords, scales and ear training.

Once the process becomes familiar, tuning all six strings takes very little time: remember E A D G B E, make small adjustments, approach each note carefully and finish with one complete recheck.