What is the note found at the 12th fret of the 5th string?

• A. E
• B. B
• C. D
• D. A

Answer: (A)

The note found at the 12th fret of the 5th string, which is also known as the A string, is indeed E. This is because each string on the guitar is tuned to a specific note. The 5th string, when played open, produces the note A.

As you move up the fretboard, each fret represents a half step increase in pitch. Therefore, when you play the 1st fret on the 5th string, it is A#; the 2nd fret is B; the 3rd fret is C; the 4th fret is C#; the 5th fret is D; the 6th fret is D#; the 7th fret is E.

Once you reach the 12th fret, you have moved an entire octave from the open string, which means you return to the original note name, E, but at a higher pitch. Understanding the layout of the fretboard and the concept of whole and half steps is essential for navigating the guitar effectively.