The shape: 022000
Read the strings from thickest to thinnest: low E, A, D, G, B, high E. For this shape, fret the A and D strings at the second fret. Leave the other four strings open.
All six strings belong in this version of E minor. If chord diagrams are new to you, read our guide to their lines and symbols first.
Place two fingers
- Put your index finger on the A string, second fret.
- Put your middle finger on the D string, second fret.
- Keep the fingertips close behind the second fret’s metal strip.
- Leave space beneath your fingers so the neighbouring open strings can ring.
This is one common fingering. You may also see the middle and ring fingers used for the same two notes. Both make the same chord shape; start with a fingering you can place comfortably and repeat.
Check the sound one string at a time
Begin with the low E and gently pluck each of the six strings in order. Listen for a note on each string. If one is muted, find that string before changing the whole hand position.
A fretting finger may be brushing a neighbouring open string. Try a small change in fingertip angle or position, then check again. If a fretted note buzzes, check that the fingertip is close behind the fret and that the string is held down.
Once the separate notes ring, make a gentle downward strum across all six strings.
A short return-to-the-shape exercise
- Form E minor and check the six strings.
- Strum once, then let the sound finish.
- Lift the fretting fingers a small distance away.
- Return to the same two positions and check again.
Repeat slowly a few times. Aim to find the shape accurately before trying to make the movement quicker. You can practise the return movement without strumming every repetition.
Make the next practice specific
Choose one observation to carry forward: a clearer G string, a more relaxed return to the shape, or a steadier single strum. That gives your next session a useful focus.
For troubleshooting, use our clearer-chords checklist. For rhythm, move to four steady downward strums.