How to Hold a Guitar Pick While Strumming Your Guitar

The pick should be almost invisible when held correctly.

A plectrum, or "guitar pick" as it is informally known, is a small triangular piece of metal or plastic used for striking the strings. You can use a plectrum for a variety of guitar-playing styles, including string-picking and strumming. The way you hold the plectrum influences the sound and accuracy of your strumming. Although each person should find his own style, there are certain principals that govern guitar-pick strumming technique.

Instructions

1. 

   You should be able to comfortably reach all strings.

   Position your arm so the middle of your forearm is approximately level with the top edge of the guitar. You should be able to reach the farthest-away string with your thumb without moving your elbow. The elbow should remain static, while all hand movements should begin at the wrist.

2. 

   The pick should rest gently between your finger and thumb.

   Grip the pick between your thumb and first finger, with the pointed end at the bottom. Your thumb should be horizontal and perpendicular to your first finger. The tip of the plectrum should protrude from the beneath your bottom edge of your thumb. Imagine you're giving the "OK" sign with your thumb and finger; the pick sits between the tip of the thumb and finger.

3. 

   This guitarist favors the fingers-stretched-out position.

   Support the pick with the tip of your second finger, but don't press on it too hard. Use your second finger to stop the pick from slipping when you strike a string. Though your grip should be reliable and capable of supporting the pick against the resistance of the strings, you should not squeeze the pick. Let it rest between your thumb and finger, rocking slightly as it touches the strings.

4. 

   This player prefers the fingers-tucked-under approach.

   Position the remaining three fingers so they don't accidentally touch the strings. You can either crook them under the palm or point them straight out. Use whichever approach is most comfortable for you.

5. Rest the edge of the palm of your hand on the bridge of the guitar. To mute the strings, slide your hand further down the bridge. For a resonant sound with full string vibration, position your hand so it touches only the metal part of the bridge and not the strings.

References

• The Guitar Lesson: How to Hold a Guitar Pick
• Fret Jam: Essential Guitar Strumming Guide