How to Read Guitar Tabs: Complete Guide

What is Guitar Tablature?

Guitar tablature (or "tab") is a simplified music notation system designed specifically for fretted instruments. Unlike standard sheet music, tabs tell you exactly where to put your fingers — which string and which fret — making it much easier for beginners to learn songs quickly.

Reading the Basics

The 6 Lines

Tab uses 6 horizontal lines representing your guitar's 6 strings. The bottom line is your lowest (thickest) string (low E), and the top line is your highest (thinnest) string (high E).

e|---high E (thinnest)---
B|---B string---
G|---G string---
D|---D string---
A|---A string---
E|---low E (thickest)---

Numbers = Frets

Numbers on the lines tell you which fret to press. A "0" means play the string open (no fretting). A "5" means press the 5th fret.

e|---0---3---5---
B|---1---3---5---

This means: play open high E, then 3rd fret, then 5th fret on the E string. Then 1st fret B, 3rd fret B, 5th fret B.

Common Tab Symbols

Hammer-ons (h)

A curved line or "h" between notes: 5h7 means pick the 5th fret, then hammer your finger onto the 7th fret without picking again.

Pull-offs (p)

The reverse: 7p5 means pick the 7th fret, then pull your finger off to sound the 5th fret.

Slides (/ or \)

5/7 means slide from 5th to 7th fret. 7\5 means slide down from 7th to 5th fret.

Bends (b)

7b9 means fret the 7th fret and bend the string until it sounds like the 9th fret pitch.

Palm Muting (PM)

Notes marked with "PM" or a dashed line should be played with your picking hand resting lightly on the strings near the bridge.

Video Tab Lessons

DadRock Tabs uses synchronized video tabs — the notation scrolls along with the video, showing you exactly what to play in real-time. This combines the visual feedback of tab with the audio reference of the actual song.

Tips for Tab Reading

• Read left to right, like a book
• Numbers stacked vertically are played simultaneously (a chord)
• Tabs don't always show rhythm — listen to the song for timing
• Use video tabs when available for the best learning experience
• Start with simple riffs before attempting full song tabs