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Struggling with Guitar Chords? Here's What Nobody Tells You
Learning guitar chords can feel like trying to tie your shoelaces with someone else's hands. Whether you're battling with string buzz, sore fingers, or that dreaded F chord, let's tackle the most common problems that every guitarist faces - and actually fix them.
The Dreaded String Buzz
When your chords sound more like a bee trapped in a jar than music, you're probably:

1

Not pressing close enough to the fret

2

Pressing too softly

3

Accidentally muting strings with other fingers
Quick fix: Press just behind the fret line, not in the middle. It takes less pressure and sounds much cleaner.
Slow Chord Changes
Those awkward pauses between chords? Here's what's really going on:

1

Your fingers are moving one at a time (they should move together)

2

You're lifting your fingers too far from the fretboard

3

You're looking at your fingers too much
Solution: Practice changing between two chords, keeping your fingers close to the strings. Start veeeerrrry slowly - don't speed up until your chord changes are accurate.
The F Chord Frustration
Ah, the F chord - guitar's first real test. Common issues:

1

Trying to play the full barre too soon

2

Straining your hand trying to press all strings

3

Getting a muddy sound
Try this instead: Start with the easier three-string F chord version. Build up to the full barre gradually as your hand strength develops.
That One String That Won't Ring
When one string refuses to sound, check:

1

If your finger is pressing firmly enough

2

If another finger is accidentally touching it

3

If you're pressing too far back from the fret (remember it should be right behind the fret line, not in the middle of the fret)
Remember: You should be pressing down with the tips of your fingers. Each finger should be curved like a pirate hook!
Thumb Position Problems
Your thumb position affects everything. Watch for:

1

Thumb creeping over the top of the neck

2

Pressing too hard with your thumb

3

Thumb positioned too high or low. Keep it behind the neck, roughly opposite your middle finger.
Remember…
These problems aren't signs you're doing it wrong… they're just part of the learning process. Every guitarist you admire worked through these same issues.
Keep practicing. Focus on clean sounds rather than speed. And most importantly, don't give up - you're probably closer to a breakthrough than you think!
Get in Touch to Book a Free Trial Session
Based in Stratford, East London, we offer expert guitar and bass tuition for all ages and skill levels.
Looking to improve your playing or master new techniques? Click below to book your free trial session.
Call us at 02031434809
Send an email to lessons@guitartuitioneastlondon.co.uk
Guitar Tuition East London
8-10 Penny Brookes Street,
London, E20 1BN