Really Learn Guitar - Pentatonic Scales Tutorial

Tutorial - Pentatonic Scales

There is a five-note division of the major scale known as the Pentatonic scale, in which there are five basic positions typically played with the sixth string as the root. The term "Pent" means '5' and "tonic" means 'tone or note'. Therefore, it is a 5-note scale. These positions are among the first things a guitar player learns on the instrument, as they are very easy to learn and applicable to nearly all styles of music. Many rock and R&B licks are built from these five positions.

Learn about the Major Scales by checking out the Major Scales Tutorial. The Modes Tutorial further explains how the fingering positions of the Major scale fit together.

The diagram below illustrates the fingerings for the 5 Pentatonic scale positions. As with the Major scale patterns, these patterns are the same for all keys.

Check out the Chart Guide which explains how to read the fingering diagrams.