I don’t like rules. These are not rules. These are my top pieces of advice for guitar students of all ages and skill levels. I use these strategies relentlessly in my own playing.
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Use a Tuner
Keep your guitar as close to perfect tuning as you can. Practice tuning by ear once you know how, but it’s important to condition your ears to hearing yourself play in tune. Professionals with professional ears use tuners. Buy one and use it every time you play. The easiest way to sound bad is to play out of tune.
For a more updated list of the few tools I actually recommend for daily practice, see Guitar Practice Tools That Are Actually Worth Owning.
Use a Metronome
It keeps you honest. It helps you get faster. It helps you track your progress. It prepares you to play with other musicians. The second easiest way to sound bad is to play with poor timing.
Once the metronome is on, you’re practicing a different skill: keeping the music moving. For more on that distinction, read Careful Mode vs. Performance Mode.
Slow Down, Relax
This will cure all your frustrations. Any trouble mastering anything on this instrument can be overcome by reducing the tempo and releasing your tension.
Listen to Everything
Seek out new music, old music, obscure music, anything with which you are unfamiliar. Listen to a wider variety of music than what you can or aspire to play. Listen to your tone, listen to the sounds around you.
Play Every Day
Try to at least touch your guitar every single day. Set a bare minimum for yourself (2 minutes, 2 hours, anything) and stick to it.
Take Responsibility, Take Credit
Take your progress into your own hands. Most of your learning will be done with no teachers around. And where you take responsibility, you can also take credit, so be proud.
Play with Other Musicians
Musically connecting with other people is among the most satisfying payoffs for your practice efforts. Don’t wait until you think you’re good enough; you already are. Take lessons, join a band, or just find someone with whom you can make some noise, and have fun!