What do the colored dots mean on the chord builder?

Green is the root, blue is the third, and orange is the fifth of the triad. Open strings use a lighter ring so you still see the string name.

Does the play button use my guitar pickups?

No. Play chord uses your device speakers or headphones with simple synthesized tones so you can check the notes without plugging in.

GuitarChordster.com

Chord Builder

Major Chords

Major chords are made up of three notes: the root, the major third, and the perfect fifth.

Formula: Root - Major 3rd - Perfect 5th

For example, a C major chord contains the notes: C (root), E (major 3rd), and G (perfect 5th).

Major chords sound bright and happy.

Minor Chords

Minor chords are also made up of three notes: the root, the minor third, and the perfect fifth.

Formula: Root - Minor 3rd - Perfect 5th

The only difference from a major chord is that the 3rd is lowered by a half step.
For example, a C minor chord contains the notes: C (root), Eb (minor 3rd), and G (perfect 5th).

Minor chords sound more somber or sad due to the lowered 3rd.

Diminished Chords

Diminished chords are made up of three notes: the root, the minor third, and the diminished fifth.

Formula: Root - Minor 3rd - Diminished 5th

Both the 3rd and 5th are lowered by a half step from a major chord.
For example, a C diminished chord contains the notes: C (root), Eb (minor 3rd), and Gb (diminished 5th).

Diminished chords create tension and are often used as passing chords.

Augmented Chords

Augmented chords are made up of three notes: the root, the major third, and the augmented fifth.

Formula: Root - Major 3rd - Augmented 5th

The 5th is raised by a half step from a major chord.
For example, a C augmented chord contains the notes: C (root), E (major 3rd), and G# (augmented 5th).

Augmented chords create a sense of tension and are often used in jazz and classical music.

How this tool works

Pick a root with the slider and a chord type from the menu. The fretboard shows one practical voicing (strings low to high). Green, blue, and orange mark root, third, and fifth. Use Play chord for a quick audio check. Share the page URL to send the exact chord.

C C# D D# E F F# G G# A A# B

What is a Chord?

A chord is a group of notes played together, forming the harmony of a song. The most basic chords are triads, made up of three notes: the root, the 3rd, and the 5th. Chords are the foundation of rhythm and harmony in music.

Why Learn Chords?

Learning chords allows you to play songs, accompany yourself or others, and understand how music is constructed. Chords are used in every style of music, from pop and rock to jazz and classical.

Types of Chords

The most common chords are major, minor, and diminished. There are also many other types, such as augmented, seventh, and suspended chords. Each type has its own unique sound and emotional quality.

How to Practice Chords on Guitar

Start by learning open position chords and practice switching between them smoothly. Use a metronome to keep time, and try playing along with your favorite songs. As you progress, learn barre chords and explore new chord shapes up the neck.

How to Use the Chord Builder Tool

Select a root note and chord type to see the notes and finger positions on the fretboard. Use this tool to visualize new chords, learn their formulas, and expand your chord vocabulary.

Fun Fact

Did you know? The same chord shape can often be moved up the neck to create new chords. For example, moving the open A major shape up two frets (and barring the second fret) gives you a B major chord!

Chord builder FAQ

What do the colored dots mean?

Green is the root, blue is the third, and orange is the fifth. Open strings use a lighter ring so the string letter stays visible.

Can I share a specific chord?

Yes. After you choose a root and type, copy the URL from your address bar. It includes root and type parameters so the same chord loads for anyone.

What does Play chord do?

It plays a short synthesized version of the triad through your speakers or headphones (not your guitar). Useful for checking the notes at a glance.