Q&A for How to Read Chord Diagrams

The little circle that looks like an o means that the string is played open (it is not fretted). If there is an x at the top, then that string is not played at all.

After playing certain songs for long enough, people memorize the chord progressions for each song so they can just play off the top of their head.

That symbolizes a bar chord.

It means it is played a 5th above the normal chord.

The difference between major and minor chords and scales boils down to a difference of one essential note - the third. The third is what gives major-sounding scales and chords their brighter, cheerier sound and what gives minor scales and chords their darker, sadder sound.

Until you have replaced your string, you won't be able to fingerpick properly. However, when playing chords you usually don't need all the strings to make it sound nice.

Your fingerboard is probably either too wide, or you're holding your hand wrong. If that's not it, remember you can always use your thumb for the biggest E-string.

There are several guitar tuners available, both in app form and on websites. Start with those, they're really helpful with getting to know what your guitar should sound like.

The chord should be played as an arpeggio, (or maybe you should strum down) so depending on the chord, you are mimicking a piano.

This means to put a capo on that specific fret. If you don't have a capo, you should buy one, as they are VERY useful!