What is the note at the 5th fret of the 6th string?

• A. C
• B. F
• C. A
• D. G

Answer: (D)

The note at the 5th fret of the 6th string is actually A. When tuning a standard guitar, the 6th string is tuned to E in open position. As you move up the frets on this string, you raise the pitch of the note by one semitone (half step) for each fret.

Starting from the open string (E), you progress as follows:

• 1st fret: F

• 2nd fret: F#

• 3rd fret: G

• 4th fret: G#

• 5th fret: A

Thus, playing the 5th fret of the 6th string gives you the note A, which is the correct answer. Understanding this concept of note progression on the fretboard is key to mastering playing and improvisation.