How to read?
Scales
Here you can see a diagram of the C major scale. The red notes on the fretboard are the root notes of this particular scale. The lowest string is the low E. Begin from the root note and start building up to the next note on this scale, you either use the same string or use the other string.
Example
Patterns
Also known as caged system, diagrams or boxes
Patterns are an effective method that allows players to memorize scales. You should use one finger per fret to play the complete pattern. Try to visualize the scale patterns!
Here you can see a diagram of the C major scale.
Example
Horizontal system
Here you can see a diagram of the C major scale. This combination of notes uses a wide range of the entire fretboard. The horizontal system requires stretching your fingers to reach the following note.
3 notes per string
Another way of approaching a scale is with 3notes per string system. Here you can see a diagram of the C major scale. As the name suspects each string contains three notes of the scale. Some guitarist builds 4 notes per string patterns.
Read next: First steps in understanding scales
