Guitar String Numbering: 1st Through 6th Explained

Why String Numbering Matters

Every guitarist needs to know which string is called the 1st string and which is the 6th. Without this common language, chord diagrams, tablature, and even casual conversation between players become confusing. The numbering system is simple once you understand the logic: it goes from the highest-pitched string (the thinnest) to the lowest-pitched string (the thickest).

This system is used across the entire guitar world, from acoustic to electric to classical instruments. It applies whether you are learning your first chord or transcribing a complex solo. The same logic carries over to 12-string and extended-range guitars, with slight adjustments for the extra strings.

The Standard Six-String Layout

A typical guitar has six strings. On a six-string guitar tuned to standard tuning, the strings are tuned to E, A, D, G, B, and E from the thickest (lowest pitch) to the thinnest (highest pitch). The numbering starts at the thinnest string: that string is called the 1st string, and it produces the high E. The next thinnest is the 2nd string (B), then the 3rd (G), 4th (D), 5th (A), and the thickest is the 6th string (low E).

Martin's guide to acoustic guitar types confirms that six-string guitars are a standard configuration, and they also mention 12-string models, which use the same base numbering for each pair of strings.

Here is the full map of a standard-tuned guitar:

How Numbering Is Used in Tablature and Chord Diagrams

In guitar tablature, the top horizontal line represents the 1st string, and the bottom line represents the 6th string. Numbers placed on those lines indicate which fret to press. Chord diagrams also use this orientation: the vertical lines are the strings, with the leftmost line (as you look at the diagram) often being the 6th string, but some diagrams reverse this. Always check the notation to avoid confusion.

Understanding string numbering is also essential when using online resources. Many instructional websites, including this one, refer to strings by their number. For example, when we discuss guitar string gauge, we might say that the 1st string is typically thinner than the 6th string. Without this shared convention, that advice would be impossible to follow.

Numbering on 12-String, 7-String, and Bass Guitars

A 12-string guitar uses pairs of strings, usually with the higher octave string of each pair being the same gauge or thinner. The numbering still refers to the six courses: the pair closest to the floor is the 1st course, and the lowest course is the 6th. This keeps the system consistent with the standard six-string instrument.

For 7-string and 8-string guitars, the numbering extends downward. The 1st string remains the thinnest, and the extra strings are added below the 6th string, so a 7-string has a 7th string tuned to a lower pitch, and an 8-string adds an 8th string even lower. Bass guitars follow the same idea: the thinnest string is the 1st, and the thickest is the last (usually the 4th string on a standard bass).

If you are considering an extended-range instrument, you will still use the same mental model. Our guides to best 7 or 8 string guitars and best bass guitars can help you choose, but the numbering logic remains unchanged.

Common Mistakes and Memory Tricks

The most common mistake is assuming the 1st string is the thickest or the lowest pitched. In reality, the 1st string is the thinnest and produces the highest note. This can be counterintuitive because we often count from the bottom up, but guitar convention does the opposite.

To remember the order, many players use mnemonics for the string names from the thickest to thinnest: "Eat A Darn Good Breakfast Every Day" works. For the numbering direction, remember that the 1st string is the one you pluck when you want a bright, high-pitched note, like the top E in an open E chord.

When you are shopping for strings, you will often see sets labeled by gauge, such as "light" or "medium." These sets always include a specific diameter for each string, and the 1st string is always the thinnest. Knowing this helps you choose the right guitar string gauge for your playing style.

How String Numbering Relates to Tuning and Setup

When you tune your guitar, you need to know which string to adjust. The tuning pegs are usually arranged so that the 6th string is the closest to your face (on a right-handed guitar), but the numbering remains fixed. On a guitar with a tremolo, the strings are still numbered the same way.

String numbering also affects how you think about string tension and intonation. For example, the thicker strings (5th and 6th) are typically wound, while the thinner ones (1st through 3rd) are plain. This is covered in our guide to electric guitar string materials, which explains how material and construction affect feel and tone.

Whether you are setting up a new acoustic guitar or an electric guitar, understanding which string is which is the first step to making any adjustment.

What to pick for your use

Questions

Which string is the 1st string on a guitar?

The 1st string is the thinnest string and is tuned to the highest E in standard tuning. It is the string closest to the floor when you hold the guitar in playing position.

Why is the numbering from high to low?

The numbering follows the pitch order. The highest-pitched string is called the 1st string, and the lowest is the 6th. This makes it easy to think about melody and chord voicings, since the 1st string carries the top note in most chords.

Do all guitars use the same numbering?

Yes, the same logic applies to all guitars. On a 12-string, each course is numbered, with the 1st course being the highest. On 7- and 8-string guitars, the numbering extends downward: the 7th string is lower than the 6th, and the 8th is lower still.

How do I remember the string order?

A common mnemonic for the standard tuning from thickest to thinnest is "Eat A Darn Good Breakfast Every Day." For the numbering, remember that the 1st string is the one that plays the highest note, so it is always the thinnest.

Does string numbering affect how I tune?

Yes, when you tune, you need to match the correct pitch to each numbered string. Most tuners display the note name, but they also assume standard numbering. Use the string number to ensure you are turning the correct tuning peg.