Guitar Lesson - How to Use the Plectrum Or Pick

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Hey there. This article discusses how to properly use the plectrum to play super fast and what types of plectrums are best for the job.

I use small hard picks that weigh less. Why? Because a pick that weighs less can be played faster and for longer periods of time without fatigue. A harder pick slides off the strings easier and lessens resistance. The Jazz 3 or my personal favourite the mini Stubby 1.0mm are good picks to use.

The pick should be held tightly between thumb and forefinger. If you hold the pick at eye level the thumbs lower edge should form a triangle shape with tip of the pick. If you pinch the pick with your other hand you should not be able to move it.

So you've got a nice solid grip of the pick. Start alternate tremelo picking (see my other articles if you are unsure about alternate tremelo picking) at a slow and easy pace.

A Common problem that can occurs is missed timing of notes. This happens due to the pick snagging on the string. You fix this problem by using the SMALLEST amount of the picks edge when play the string. This hugely lessens the resistance from the string and increases a players speed and accuracy greatly. Be sure to master picking this way both up and down.

Use the smallest amount of the picks edge for strumming chords also.

So that's how to hold the pick and use a minimal edge for faster and more accurate guitar playing.