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Step 1
Leave the bottom two strings open. The A string is the second string from the bottom, and the A note is your 1 or "base," so you definitely want to include that in the A major chord. The E is your fifth, and you want to include that as well.
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Step 2
Put your finger on the second fret of the D string (third from bottom). You're adding another E note to the chord. You can see a pattern developing: your A major chord is selected of only three notes, and the rest of the notes are avoided to make the harmonious sound we expect from the major chord.
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Step 3
Add a finger on the second fret of the G string (fourth from bottom). You're adding another A.
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Step 4
Insert your C#, your third. On the B string, (second from top), put your finger on the second fret yet again. The A major chord has a very simple structure, it's almost like a bar chord, in fact, it's a partial bar. All of your fingers go on the second fret. The only challenge is fitting your three fingers onto the same fret.
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Step 5
Let the top string open. You're adding another E note. Your A major chord is complete.
