How to Play the Minor Pentatonic Scale IV for Guitar

The minor pentatonic scale IV is built off of the fourth note of the minor pentatonic scale I, and the root can be found on the third note of the scale. This scale has been used by many famous guitarists as the inspiration for their improvised solos and memorable riffs.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Place the left-hand index finger on the eighth fret of the sixth string. Pluck the note with a pick or right-hand finger.

2. Position the left-hand pinky finger on the 11th fret of the sixth string. Play the string.

3. Place the left-hand index finger on the eighth fret of the fifth string. Pluck the note.

4. Position the left-hand pinky finger on the 11th fret of the fifth string. Play the note.

5. Place the left-hand index finger on the eighth fret of the fourth string. Pluck the string.

6. Position the left-hand ring finger on the tenth fret of the fourth string. Play the note.

7. Place the left-hand index finger on the eighth fret of the third string. Pluck the string.

8. Place the left-hand ring finger on the tenth fret of the third string. Play the string.

9. Position the left-hand middle finger on the ninth fret of the second string. Play the note.

10. Place the left-hand pinky finger on the 11th fret of the second string. Pluck the string.

11. Position the left-hand index finger on the eighth fret of the first string. Play the note.

12. Place the left-hand pinky finger on the 11th fret of the first string. Pluck the string.

13. Play all 12 notes in a row to produce an F minor pentatonic minor IV scale.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice playing the minor blues IV scale in different keys across the neck. The third note of the scale is the root, which indicates the key. For example, playing this scale on the first fret of the sixth string would produce a Bb minor pentatonic as the root falls on the first fret of the fifth string, Bb. Learning all five minor pentatonic scales will allow you to better access this scale at any time, and in any position, across the guitar's neck.

Resources

• Tips for Practicing Guitar Scales
• Guitar Player Lesson Page