1. Begin with the tuning you are using
Our chord shapes use standard tuning: string 6 through string 1 is E, A, D, G, B, E, from lowest pitch to highest. The thin high E is string 1; the thick low E is string 6. On a normally strung six-string guitar, string 6 is the thickest. A differently tuned guitar will not produce the same chords from these shapes.
Use a suitable tuner and follow the instrument’s instructions. The two E strings are different octaves, and a matching letter alone is not proof that a string is at the intended pitch. If you are unfamiliar with tuning or unsure which string or peg you are moving, ask a teacher or experienced player to demonstrate rather than tightening a string by guesswork. This site’s metronome does not listen to pitch or tune your guitar.
2. Make one fretted note
Choose an easy-to-reach note. Place the fingertip just behind the target fret, not on the metal fret itself, and pick the string gently. Check the position and whether another finger is touching the string before simply adding more pressure. Use a comfortable setup and pause if playing feels uncomfortable. A teacher can help with positioning; a technician can assess an instrument that is difficult to play.
3. Listen to Em one string at a time
Use the E minor diagram: strings 5 and 4 are fretted at fret 2, and the other four strings are open. Pick each string separately and notice which notes sound clearly. Check a string that is muted accidentally, then try one gentle strum across all six. A clean individual note tells you more about the shape than repeatedly strumming a chord that is not yet clear.
4. Choose a small next task
Try finding the Em shape again after relaxing your fretting hand. If it feels manageable, look at Am and work through its string instructions. Do not rush to change chords in time before you can locate both shapes. Our practice planner gives the session a focus; the chord-change guide shows a way to practise the movement.
5. Leave yourself a useful note
Write one thing that worked and one thing to revisit. “The open G was clearer when I adjusted my fingertip” is more useful than deciding the whole session was good or bad. Stop at a sensible point and make it easy to return. The site offers tools for organising practice, not a complete course or an assessment of your playing.