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Step 1
Choose steel acoustic-guitar strings that fit your playing style. If you play primarily rhythm, you want a thicker-gauge string. Strings are usually measured by the starting gauge of the thinnest string. A 9-gauge set is considered light gauge. Use a 12- or 13-gauge if you play a lot of chords and rhythm, or if your playing style is heavy-handed. It will prevent you from breaking strings on a regular basis. Thinner-gauge strings are ideal for playing lead lines and solos, especially if you do a lot of playing high up on the neck or play very quickly.
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Step 2
Consider the tone you want. Thinner-gauge strings produce a brighter, crisper sound. The thicker the strings are, the deeper and richer the tone is. The gauge of the steel acoustic-guitar strings you choose may be based on this criterion alone.
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Step 3
Consider a silk-and-steel combination string if your fingers can't seem to get used to the bite of steel acoustic-guitar strings. The light silk weaving within the wind of the steel softens the touch of the string, yet still produces a bright tone.
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Step 4
Pick strings coated with polymer or a similar substance if you tend to sweat a lot. Sweat buildup on acoustic guitar strings is a major cause of string dulling. The coating decreases the quality of the string's sound a little bit, but it keeps you from having to change your strings as frequently.
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Step 5
Nickel-wound or silver-plated steel acoustic-guitar strings emit different sounds. Nickel-plated tends to lend itself to a very warm tone. Silver-plated gives a crisp, clean tone. Bronze acoustic-guitar strings are a popular choice because they offer a good combination of warmth and crispness. With so many choices and manufacturer's claims to consider, the best way to find the steel acoustic-guitar strings that are right for you is to experiment. You'll know the right strings when you feel and hear them.
